What should I check before inserting NG tube?

pH testing strips: to assess the pH of the aspirate. Dressing: to secure the NG tube. A glass of water for the patient (if swallow is deemed safe). Local anaesthetic spray: to numb the oropharynx.

What are the safety considerations in using nasogastric tubes?

Verify health care provider’s orders to remove NG tube.

Collect supplies.

Verify patient using two identifiers.

Perform hand hygiene.

Disconnect tube from feed if present.

Remove tape or securement device from nose.

Unclip NG tube from patient’s gown.

Clear NG tube by inserting 10 to 20 ml of air into tube.

What are the three ways to check for proper placement of a nasogastric tube?

Methods of confirming NG tube position

1. Auscultation of air insufflated through the feeding tube (‘whoosh’ test)
2. Testing the acidity/alkalinity of aspirate using blue litmus paper.
3. Interpreting the absence of respiratory distress as an indicator of correct positioning.
4. Monitoring bubbling at the end of the tube.

How do you insert a nasogastric tube?

Hand the patient a glass of water with a straw and ask him to extend his neck backward. Insert the tube and gently advance it toward his nasopharynx with the curved end pointing downward. When the end just passes the nasopharynx, have the patient flex his head forward and swallow sips of water.

What position do you place the client in when inserting a NG tube?

Position patient sitting up at 45 to 90 degrees (unless contraindicated by the patient’s condition), with a pillow under the head and shoulders. This allows the NG tube to pass more easily through the nasopharynx and into the stomach.

How do you insert NGT?

How do you nurse a nasogastric tube?

Nursing Considerations

1. Provide oral and skin care. Give mouth rinses and apply lubricant to the patient’s lips and nostril.
2. Verify NG tube placement. Always verify if the NG tube placed is in the stomach by aspirating a small amount of stomach contents.
3. Wear gloves.
4. Face and eye protection.