Which actions by a student nurse administering medications via NGT require follow-up?

Administering medications directly into tube feeding requires follow-up because it can lead to various complications, including potential drug interactions and reduced effectiveness of medications. Tube feedings can alter the absorption of certain medications, as the presence of nutrients in the gastrointestinal tract can affect how medications are broken down and absorbed.

Administering medications this way may prevent the proper therapeutic effects of the drugs, as they may not reach the systemic circulation adequately. Additionally, some medications may need to be administered separately from feedings to avoid binding interactions or to ensure they are absorbed properly. Therefore, best practice typically involves administering medications through the NG tube when the feeding is paused to ensure proper delivery and drug efficacy.

The other actions, such as grinding tablets into a fine powder, using a 30 mL flush after medication, and verifying NGT placement, are generally aligned with safe nursing practices. Crushing tablets ensures they can pass through the tube without clogging, flushing the tube maintains patency and ensures medication delivery, and verifying the placement of the NGT is essential for safety before administering any substance.