Why have a nasogastric tube

What symptoms did you have besides the obvious trouble with sight? Were your blood tests in normal range? My vitamin A has been lower than the normal Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. Egton Medical Information Systems Limited has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions.

For details see our conditions. This article is for Medical Professionals. In this article Feeding by nasogastric tubes Contra-indications Inserting a nasogastric tube Checking tube position Securing and monitoring the tube Medications.

Nasogastric Ryles Tubes In this article Feeding by nasogastric tubes Contra-indications Inserting a nasogastric tube Checking tube position Securing and monitoring the tube Medications. Feeding by nasogastric tubes [ 1 ] Bolus: by gravity - very simple, requiring minimal equipment but increases the risk of gastrointestinal symptoms.

Intermittently: by gravity or pump - gives time free of feeding but increases the risk of gastrointestinal symptoms. Continuously: by pump system - reduces the rate of gastrointestinal symptoms but the patient is connected to the system most of the time and this may limit mobility.

The patient is usually told to swallow while the NG tube is being placed. The procedure is uncomfortable, but it shouldn't be painful that could indicate that the tube is not placed properly. After the tube is in, the healthcare team will check to make sure it's in the right place and everything has gone as it should. One way of doing this is by taking an X-ray, which will show the placement of the tube. Another way is by using the tube to add or remove some stomach contents, which can show that the tube is properly placed in the stomach.

The outside of the tube will be taped down in place on the skin so that it doesn't become dislodged accidentally. NG tubes can be very effective at treating some conditions and in administering medications, but they're not without the potential for some less-than-desirable effects.

People with an NG tube might experience some symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, or swelling. While most NG tubes are placed without any incident, there are some risks. One of the things that can happen while the tube is being inserted is an injury to the esophagus, throat, sinuses, or stomach.

It's possible that if an NG tube gets blocked or torn, or if it comes out of place, there can be further problems. There's also a possibility for any food or medicine being put through the tube to be regurgitated or to go into the lungs aspirated. The healthcare professionals who place nasogastric tubes are trained to be on the lookout for any potential complications. Most patients agree that an NG tube is a difficult thing to deal with, and can be uncomfortable, especially when it's being placed.

However, it can help prevent surgery in some cases, such as with an intestinal blockage. It is uncomfortable, but it shouldn't be painful. An NG tube is temporary, so it will be in place only for as long as it's needed, which, in many cases, may be only a few days.

It depends. Some tubes may need to be replaced every three days, while long-term nasogastric tubes can be left in place for four to six weeks after being inserted.

A primary use for an NG tube is to provide enteral nutrition, which is also known as gastric feeding. Only if it isn't positioned properly and interferes with the functioning of the larynx vocal cords. In this case, a person may sound hoarse. Once the tube is repositioned, the voice should sound normal. We're providing tips on how to take better care of your gut.

Williams T. Nasogastric tube feeding: A safe option for patients? Br J Community Nurs. Nasogastric tube insertion in anaesthetized patients: a comprehensive review. With suction, these electrolytes will be lost with the gastric contents that are removed.

You'll also want to monitor your patient's daily weight and maintain strict intake and output; this will ensure that he or she is receiving the right amount of nutrients and water. Monitor your patient's skin, especially the nares. NG tubes can cause skin breakdown of the nares if not monitored and repositioned frequently.

You should change the position of the NG tube slightly every 24 hours to reduce the risk of skin breakdown. Remember that tube placement should be verified before use if intermittently being used and every 4 hours if being continuously used. NG tubes can be used as both a diagnostic and treatment tool. With an NG tube, you can monitor your patient's condition, administer medications, and provide nutrients.

NG tubes may be used for immediate protection of the airway in stroke patients with difficulty swallowing or for a moderate amount of time to provide nutrition to patients. With time and experience, you'll become comfortable with NG tubes to the benefit of your patients. Curtis K. Caring for adult patients who require nasogastric feeding tubes. Nurs Stand ;27 38 Higgins D. Patient assessment part 3-measurement of gastric fluid pH.

Nasogastric feeding for stroke patients: practice and education. Br J Nurs. Nasogastric feeding tube. Thomas DR. Enteral tube nutrition. University of Ottawa. Nasogastric tube insertion. Hepatol Int. All rights reserved. Membership is free and comes with many benefits. Note: You must also be a member and log in to purchase articles. Share This. Source: Nursing made Incredibly Easy!

Article Content As a nurse, very few procedures are as intimidating as inserting your first nasogastric NG tube. What's the deal? Contraindications Contraindications to NG tube placement are divided into two categories: absolute and relative.

Insertion tips Follow these steps when inserting an NG tube for an adult patient.