مريض على تغذية أنبوبية مستمرة، فجأة صار يكح بشدة، ونزل تشبعه إلى ٨٨٪، وظهر سائل التغذية في فمه. ما أول إجراء؟

A client on continuous tube feeding suddenly coughs violently, his SpO2 drops to 88% and feed appears in his mouth. What is the first action?

1. Increase the rate to complete the prescribed volume
2. Lay him flat on his back to settle the cough
3. Stop the feeding immediately
4. Give him sips of water to clear his mouth and throat

Answer: C) Stop the feeding immediately. Coughing, desaturation and feed in the mouth suggest reflux and likely aspiration, so the feed stops at once, the head is raised, the mouth and pharynx are suctioned, breathing is assessed and the provider is notified. Lying flat and oral water increase aspiration.