Nasogastric Int
Nasogastric Int
Nasogastric Int
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Introduction
Gastric intubation via the nasal passage (ie, nasogastric route) is a common procedure that provides
access to the stomach for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Indications
● Administration of medication
● Feeding
● Bowel irrigation
Equipment
● NG tube (for pediatric patients) - In pediatric patients, the correct tube size varies with the patient's
age; to find the correct size (in French), add 16 to the patient's age in years and then divide by 2, so that
for an 8-year-old child, for example, the correct size is 12 French ([8 + 16]/2 = 12)
● Viscous lidocaine 2%
● Syringe, 10 mL
● Water-based lubricant
● Toomey syringe, 60 mL
● Tape
Procedure
● Introduce yourself to the patient and clarify the patient’s identity. Explain the procedure to the patient
and gain informed consent to continue.
● Gather equipment
● Measure tubing from bridge of nose to earlobe, then to the point halfway between the end of the
sternum and the navel
● Lubricate 2-4 inches of tube with lubricant (preferably 2% Xylocaine). This procedure is very
uncomfortable for many patients, so a squirt of Xylocaine jelly in the nostril, and a spray of Xylocaine to
the back of the throat will help alleviate the discomfort.
● Pass tube via either nare posteriorly, past the pharynx into the esophagus and then the stomach.
● Instruct the patient to swallow (you may offer ice chips/water) and advance the tube as the patient
swallows. Swallowing of small sips of water may enhance passage of tube into esophagus.
If resistance is met, rotate tube slowly with downward advancement toward closes ear. Do not force.
● Withdraw tube immediately if changes occur in patient's respiratory status, if tube coils in mouth, if
the patient begins to cough or turns pretty colour
● Check for placement by attaching syringe to free end of the tube, aspirate sample of gastric contents.
Do not inject an air bolus, as the best practice is to test the pH of the aspirated contents to ensure that
the contents are acidic. The pH should be below 6. Obtain an x-ray to verify placement before instilling
any feedings/medications or if you have concerns about the placement of the tube.
● If for suction, remove syringe from free end of tube; connect to suction; set machine on type of
suction and pressure as prescribed.
Contraindications
● Coagulation abnormality
● Alkaline ingestion
Complications
● Aspiration Pneumonia
● Tissue trauma
● Gagging or vomiting
● Epistaxis
● Esophageal perforation
● Laryngospasm
● Hypoxia
● Bradycardia
● Hyponatremia, Hypochloremia
● Water intoxication