If a nurse checks a gastric residual in an unconscious client receiving nasogastric tube feedings and finds it increasing, what complication does this indicate?

When a nurse observes that the gastric residual volume is increasing in an unconscious client receiving nasogastric tube feedings, this suggests the potential complication of delayed gastric emptying. Increase in gastric residual indicates that the stomach is not processing the contents efficiently, leading to a buildup of formula or liquid that has not yet moved into the intestines for further digestion and absorption.

Delayed gastric emptying can occur for various reasons, including motility disorders, the effects of sedatives or medications that slow gastrointestinal function, or a physical obstruction within the gastrointestinal tract. Monitoring gastric residuals is an important practice to assess a patient's tolerance to feeding and the function of their gastrointestinal system. When the residual continues to rise, it may lead to complications such as aspiration pneumonia or malnutrition, indicating the need for an evaluation of the feeding regimen and possibly further medical intervention.

In contrast, while an infusion rate that is too slow might contribute to inadequate nutrition, it does not specifically account for the increase in gastric residual alone. Air in the stomach is more related to techniques of tube placement and feeding administration rather than chronic residual issues. Peptic ulcers usually present with significant gastrointestinal symptoms, which would not be solely indicated by increased residual volume alone.