Which action should a nurse take prior to removing a client's NG tube?

The most appropriate action for a nurse to take before removing a client's NG tube is to auscultate for bowel sounds. This step is critical because the presence of bowel sounds indicates that gastrointestinal function is returning and that the stomach is likely ready to resume normal activities, such as eating and drinking.

Monitoring bowel sounds helps verify that the intestines are operational, which can inform the decision to remove the NG tube. If bowel sounds are present and active, it typically suggests that the digestive system is functioning properly and the NG tube can be safely removed.

In contrast to this, checking for tube patency, while also important, primarily ensures that the tube is not obstructed. However, it does not provide information about the client's gastrointestinal status, which is essential before removal. Assessing mental status is a necessary nursing intervention, but it does not directly correlate with the readiness for NG tube removal. Administering oral fluids would be inappropriate prior to tube removal since it suggests introducing fluid before confirming the readiness of the GI tract. Thus, auscultating for bowel sounds directly addresses the primary concern of ensuring the safe removal of the NG tube in relation to the client's digestive health.