When administering liquid medications through an NG tube with intermittent suction, what action should the nurse take?

When administering liquid medications through a nasogastric (NG) tube with intermittent suction, pinching the tube prior to attaching the medication syringe is crucial. This action helps to prevent air from entering the tube, which can disrupt the suction and cause complications such as improper medication delivery or aspiration. By pinching the tube, the nurse ensures a closed system while the medication is being administered.

Additionally, this technique allows for a more controlled way to deliver the medication, ensuring that the full dose reaches the intended area without interference from the suction mechanism. After administering the medication, the nurse can then safely release the pinch to resume suction as needed. This method is essential for maintaining proper medication administration and patient safety while managing the NG tube.