A client with an upper GI bleed is about to undergo gastric lavage by the nurse. Which action by the nurse is correct in performing this procedure?

  • instill 200 to 300 mL of a prewarmed solution
  • instill 400 to 600 mL of a room-temperature solution
  • position the client on the right side during the procedure
  • manually withdraw the solution until clear or light pink with no clots
Number 4 is correct.
When performing gastric lavage, the solution is instilled and removed until returns are clear or light pink without clots. The volume of solution is 200 to 300 mL and should be at room temperature. The client is placed on the left side during the procedure.