NASOGASTRIC TUBE INSERTION

Nasogastric Tube – a clear plastic tube that is inserted through the nose, down the back of the throat, through esophagus and into the stomach.
PURPOSE
1. To remove fluid and gas from the gastro-intestinal tract for decompression.
2. To prevent or relieve nausea and vomiting after surgery or traumatic event by decompressing the stomach.
3. to administer medication and feeding directly into the gastro-intestinal tract.
4. To obtain a specimen of gastric contents for laboratory studies.

INDICATIONS
1. Abdominal distention
2. Gastro-intestinal bleeding
3. Inability to swallow
4. Diagnostic test

PRINCIPLES
1. Oral care is paramount to client with nasogastric tube
2. Most clients with NGT in place will breathe through the mouth. The lips should be moistened from time to time.
3. The presence of NGT can produce nasal irritation & potential for mucosal breakdown.
4. For prolonged tube placement, the tube will be replaced every 2-3 weeks. If possible, place the tube in alternating nostril.

Characteristics of Different NGT Drainage
Normal – greenish yellow with strands of mucus
Coffee ground – old blood that has been broken down in the stomach
Bright red blood – due to bleeding from the esophagus, the stomach or swallowed from the lungs
Foul-smelling (fecal odor) – occurs with reserve peristalsis in bowel obstruction, increase in amount of drainage with obstruction

EQUIPMENTS:
NGT Aseptic syringe
Water-soluble lubricant Stethoscope
Emesis basin Disposable gloves
Hypoallergenic tape Paper towel

(Click Here to Show the Full Procedure)
NASOGASTRIC TUBE INSERTION PROCEDURE
CHECKING TUBE PLACEMENT
REMOVING THE TUBE