Nasoesophageal Tube Use
Posted: Wednesday, December 15th, 2021 | Updated: Saturday, March 2nd, 2024
Posted: Wednesday, December 15th, 2021 | Updated: Saturday, March 2nd, 2024
Overview
Typically a nasoesophageal tube or NE tube is placed through the nose of a patient and down into the esophagus. This tube does not enter into the stomach like the nasogastric tube would. The correct placement of the tube may be confirmed on radiographs
Using The Nasoesophageal Tube
When using the NE tube, aspirate to ensure negative pressure is achieved. Once complete, you may instill a small amount of water to clear the line. Once the line is cleared and the patient did not cough when you flushed the water through, you may begin to give medications or tube feedings. Tube feedings are given slowly and a careful eye is kept on the patient while feeding to ensure they aren't becoming nauseous and are handling it okay. You may have to slow the feeding down or stop the feeding if the patient isn't tolerating it well. Always be sure to flush the line with a small amount of water afterward to prevent the tube from clogging. If the tube does clog and water isn't clearing the line, you may use a small amount of regular Coca-Cola to help break down the clog if the clinician approves. Reassessment of the NE tube placement is advised if the patient coughs with the installment of the water or if negative pressure is unable to be achieved
Typically a nasoesophageal tube or NE tube is placed through the nose of a patient and down into the esophagus. This tube does not enter into the stomach like the nasogastric tube would. The correct placement of the tube may be confirmed on radiographs
Using The Nasoesophageal Tube
When using the NE tube, aspirate to ensure negative pressure is achieved. Once complete, you may instill a small amount of water to clear the line. Once the line is cleared and the patient did not cough when you flushed the water through, you may begin to give medications or tube feedings. Tube feedings are given slowly and a careful eye is kept on the patient while feeding to ensure they aren't becoming nauseous and are handling it okay. You may have to slow the feeding down or stop the feeding if the patient isn't tolerating it well. Always be sure to flush the line with a small amount of water afterward to prevent the tube from clogging. If the tube does clog and water isn't clearing the line, you may use a small amount of regular Coca-Cola to help break down the clog if the clinician approves. Reassessment of the NE tube placement is advised if the patient coughs with the installment of the water or if negative pressure is unable to be achieved
Sources:
On The Job Training and Routine Practices
On The Job Training and Routine Practices