indications for nasogastric tube insertion and suction
• Decompression – removal of gas and fluids (stomach contents) to relieve distention / nausea and vomiting
o Decompression – ordered until bowel activity returns (~ 3-5 days)
• Obstruction – relieve and treat
• Diagnosis – disorders and obtain specimens
• Post-Operative Healing
• Compression – treatment of bleeding through a balloon
• Lavage – remove toxic substances and irrigate (washing out)
• Feeding – provide enteral feeding and medications
What are nursing assessments for NG tubes?Differentiate between indication for gastric decompression and tube feeding
Indication for/suction level and frequency, LOC, Last bowel movement - and listen for bowel sounds, patency of nares, ability to swallow, intake/output, placement of tube
- GI ASSESSMENT: abdominal distention, N/V, level of px/discomfort
- RESPIRATORY ASSESSMENT: R.R (increased RR, diminished air entry), SpO2 sat, lung sounds, temp
How do you estimate length of tubing
- Adult/child – measure from the tip of nose to ear lobe and then to a point midway between the xyphoid process & umbilicus
- Indicate this point on tube with a sharpie or piece of tape
