Posted: January 31st, 2018

Continuous enteral feedings through a Salem sump tube at a rate of 60ml/hr : 3 Important Facts to Note

An intubated patient is receiving continuous enteral feedings through a Salem sump tube at a rate of 60ml/hr. Gastric residuals have been 30-40ml when monitored Q4H.

You check the gastric residual and aspirate 220ml. What is your first response to this finding?

1. Notify the doctor immediately.
2. Stop the feeding, and clamp the NG tube.
3. Discard the 220ml, and clamp the NG tube.