Nasogastric 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 nasogastric tube or NG tube is placed through the nose of a patient, down the esophagus, and into their stomach. The correct placement of the tube should be confirmed on radiographs prior to use
Using The Nasogastric Tube
When using the NG tube, aspirate to ensure either gastric contents are obtained or negative pressure is achieved. Once complete, you may continue to aspirate the rest of the GI contents if directed so by the clinician or 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 NG tube placement is advised if the patient coughs with the installment of the water, GI contents aren't able to be obtained, or if negative pressure is unable to be achieved
Typically a nasogastric tube or NG tube is placed through the nose of a patient, down the esophagus, and into their stomach. The correct placement of the tube should be confirmed on radiographs prior to use
Using The Nasogastric Tube
When using the NG tube, aspirate to ensure either gastric contents are obtained or negative pressure is achieved. Once complete, you may continue to aspirate the rest of the GI contents if directed so by the clinician or 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 NG tube placement is advised if the patient coughs with the installment of the water, GI contents aren't able to be obtained, or if negative pressure is unable to be achieved
Sources:
On The Job Training and Routine Practices
On The Job Training and Routine Practices