Nasogastric Tube Essay

382 Words1 Page

A nasogastric tube is a flexible tube made of plastic or rubber which is inserted through the patients nasopharynx into the stomach. A patients condition sometimes requires special interventions utilizing the NG tube, which serves many purposes. There are two main categories of NG tubes: fine or small bore tubes and large-bore tubes. Fine or small bore tubes can be used to for enteral feeding by instilling liquids in the stomach or medication administration. Large bore tubes are used for gastric decompressing which is the removal of gastric secretions. Another purpose is for gastric suction, also known as gastric lavage in which the contents of the stomach are emptied as well as for the purpose of compression.
The purpose of enteral feeding is for the delivery of nutritional feed, containing fat, protein, carbohydrates, water, vitamins and minerals directly into the stomach or duodenum for patients unable to swallow fluid, achieved by using the nasogastric tube. The NG tube is used for malnourished patients, patients with infections of the GI tract, conditions in which peristalsis is absent, postoperative patients with …show more content…

NG intubation for the purpose of gastric decompression keeps the GI tract free of secretions, reduces nausea and gas, and decrease risks of vomiting and aspiration. The Levin and Salem sump tubes are most commonly used for stomach decompression. The Salem sump tube has two lumina, one for the removal of gastric contents and the other to provide an air vent. As the main lumen of the sump tube is connected to suction the air vent allows for uninterrupted drainage of secretions. The Salem sump is most preferred for stomach decompression. The Levin tube is a single lumen tube with holes at the tip which is connected to a drainage bag or suctioning device to drain stomach

More about Nasogastric Tube Essay

Open Document