What action by a student nurse administering medications via double-lumen NGT requires follow-up?

Irrigating the air vent before medication administration with water requires follow-up because it indicates a misunderstanding of the purpose of the air vent in a double-lumen nasogastric tube (NGT). The air vent, also known as the vent lumen, is designed to prevent negative pressure and allow for proper drainage of gastric contents. It is crucial that the air vent remains unoccluded to ensure that the tube functions correctly and does not create a vacuum, which could lead to discomfort or complications for the patient.

In contrast, flushing the NGT between medications with water, administering each medication separately, and contacting the pharmacy for liquid form medications are appropriate actions. Flushing ensures that each medication is cleared from the tube, reducing the risk of interaction between medications. Administering medications separately is essential for verifying the effectiveness and preventing any potential interactions. Contacting the pharmacy for medications in liquid form is often necessary for easier administration through an NGT, ensuring that the patient receives their medication safely and effectively. These actions are all consistent with best practices for medication administration via an NGT.