What is a
nasogastric (NG) tube?
A nasogastric (NG) tube is a flexible
plastic tube that goes through the patient's
mouth or nose into the stomach. It is
designed to remove stomach contents or
provide a route to give medication or food
to a patient who cannot swallow. The portion
of the NG tube outside of the patient may be
plugged closed, connected to a delivery
device or connected to a suction device. NG
tubes may be inserted while the patient is
in the emergency department, operating room,
ICU, or regular hospital ward.
Does a NG tube
hurt?
The insertion of the NG tube is somewhat
uncomfortable for an awake patient but once
in place the NG tube usually causes very
little irritation. Some patients, however,
remain uncomfortable as long as an NG tube
is in place.
How is the NG tube
kept in place?
Typically, tape is used to secure the NG
tube to the patient's nose and hold the NG
tube in place.
How long is a NG
tube used?
That depends upon why the patient required
the NG tube. Frequently a critically ill or
injured patient's stomach does not function
well because of the underlying illness or
injury. That is, the stomach does not empty
normally and the solids or liquids remain in
the stomach unless they are drained. These
patients are usually sick to their stomach
and vomit. When this stomach condition
occurs, an NG tube is necessary until the
stomach function returns. Some patients
require a NG tube after surgery until the
effects of the surgery and anesthesia on the
stomach wear off. If the NG tube was needed
due to abnormal swallowing, then it remains
in place until the swallowing improves or
another option is considered.
Are there any
potential complications associated with use
of a NG tube?
Rarely, sores develop in the nose or mouth
due to pressure caused by a NG tube.
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Nasogastric Tube |
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