What should the receiving nurse do first when informed that a client cannot tolerate tube feedings?

When a nurse is informed that a client cannot tolerate tube feedings, the first step should be to gather more data from the night nurse. This approach is essential because it allows the receiving nurse to understand the specifics of the situation, including the type of formula used, the rate of administration, the duration of the feeding, any symptoms the client may be experiencing (such as nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain), and any relevant results from assessments carried out by the night nurse.

Understanding the complete picture helps in determining the most appropriate course of action. By collecting detailed information, the nurse can assess whether the issue is related to the feeding itself, the client's condition, or a different factor impacting tolerance. Based on this information, the nurse may then decide to notify the physician if necessary, consider alternate feeding methods, or assess the potential of initiating oral feedings if it's appropriate.

This method of gathering data first promotes safe patient care and aligns with the nursing process, which emphasizes assessment before intervention. It ensures that any decisions made are informed and relevant to the client's specific needs and situation.