PN Adult Medical Surgical Practice Exam

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What is the primary purpose of using a double-lumen gastric sump tube in gastrointestinal management?

To provide nutrition
To stabilize the client
To vent the tube to the atmosphere
To monitor electrolytes

The correct answer is: To vent the tube to the atmosphere

The primary purpose of using a double-lumen gastric sump tube is to vent the tube to the atmosphere. This type of tube aids in the continuous suctioning of gastric contents while also preventing negative pressure inside the stomach that could cause complications such as tissue injury. The two lumens allow for one to be used for suction and the other to enable atmospheric air to enter, which helps maintain a balance and prevents the tube from becoming occluded. While providing nutrition, stabilizing the client, or monitoring electrolytes might be relevant in the context of gastrointestinal management, they are not the primary function of the double-lumen gastric sump tube. The tube is specifically designed for drainage and venting, which is crucial in managing gastric decompression and preventing complications related to excessive suctioning.