A nurse identifies small amounts of aspirate during check of residuals in a patient on bolus feeding. The nurse should:

• A. Stop the feeding temporarily and reassess
• B. Continue with the feeding and recheck later
• C. Discontinue the administration of the bolus feeding
• D. Reposition and resume without stopping

Answer: (C)

When gastric residuals show even small amounts of aspirate during bolus feeding, it signals that the stomach isn’t tolerating the feed well and raises the risk of aspiration. The safest course is to discontinue the bolus feeding to prevent further aspiration and to reassess the patient’s tolerance, residuals, and overall status before proceeding. After stopping, the nurse should evaluate for signs of intolerance (abdominal distension, nausea, vomiting), verify tube placement, and monitor respiratory status, then follow the provider’s orders to determine whether and when feeding can be resumed. Removing the bolus feed now helps protect the airway and stabilize the patient, rather than continuing or resuming without reassessment.