If a client with an NG tube experiences abdominal distention, what action should the nurse take?

In the context of a client with an NG tube experiencing abdominal distention, irrigating the tube with normal saline is the appropriate action to take. This intervention addresses potential causes of the distention by ensuring that the tube is patent and functioning properly. An obstructed or kinked NG tube can prevent gastric contents from draining effectively, leading to a buildup of air and fluid in the stomach, which results in distention. By irrigating the tube, the nurse can help clear any blockages and promote normal gastrointestinal function, easing the patient's discomfort.

Administering pain medication may alleviate discomfort but does not address the underlying issue causing the distention. Removing the NG tube immediately may be premature without ensuring that it is functioning properly, as the tube may still be necessary for the patient’s management. Encouraging ambulation can be beneficial for gastrointestinal motility, but it is not specific enough to resolve the immediate concern of potential tube malfunction or blockage. Therefore, irrigating the tube with normal saline is a targeted approach that addresses the specific symptom of abdominal distention effectively.