RN Exam Practice
Safety and Infection ControlQuestion 1894 of 2368

While advancing a nasogastric tube, the client begins coughing severely and looks cyanotic. Which action should the nurse take?

  1. Pull the tube back until normal breathing resumes
  2. Advance the tube quickly to pass the cough
  3. Ask the client to sip water and continue advancing
  4. Secure the tube and check placement later
Show answer

Correct answer: Pull the tube back until normal breathing resumes

Severe coughing and cyanosis suggest the tube entered the airway. Withdraw it until breathing is normal before trying again.

Source: Nursing Advanced Skills (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Insert Nasogastric and Feeding Tubes: CHECKLIST: INSERT A NASOGASTRIC TUBE. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Safety and Infection Control"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026