NG Tube Basics
This position helps the patient swallow during NG tube insertion.
What is High Fowler’s position?
If a patient coughs and gags during insertion, this action should be taken.
What is pull the tube back slightly?
Catheter care should be performed this often.
What is every shift or 2 times a day?
This facial expression may indicate improper catheter placement.
What is grimacing?
This describes a urostomy.
What is diversion of urine through a stoma?
This is the correct measurement for NG tube insertion.
What is nose → earlobe → xiphoid process?
Persistent coughing during insertion may indicate this dangerous complication.
What is the tube entering the airway/larynx?
This portion of the catheter must be cleaned routinely.
What is the first 2 inches?
If grimacing occurs during balloon inflation, this action should be taken.
What is advance the catheter further before inflating?
Enemas “until clear” means this.
What is until no fecal matter is present?
This type of lubricant should be used before inserting an NG tube.
What is water-soluble lubricant?
These instructions help the patient during NG insertion.
What is breathe and take small sips of water?
These products should NOT be used for catheter care.
What are alcohol and lotions?
This happens if the drainage bag is placed above the bladder.
What is backflow of urine?
After this number of unsuccessful enemas, the provider should be notified.
What is three?
This is one purpose of an NG tube related to digestion.
What is removing gastric contents or allowing the GI tract to rest?
This can happen if NG placement is not verified before feeding.
What is aspiration?
The drainage bag should always be kept at this level relative to the bladder.
What is below the bladder?
After catheter removal, the bladder may experience this issue.
What is loss of tone/urinary retention?
This complication can occur with too many enemas.
What is electrolyte imbalance?
This must always be checked before feeding or irrigating an NG tube.
What is proper tube placement?
This is why lubrication is critical during NG insertion.
What is to prevent mucosal trauma?
This technique is required when caring for a closed drainage system.
What is aseptic technique?
This type of catheterization has a lower infection risk.
What is intermittent catheterization?
This is why urostomy patients are at high risk for skin breakdown.
What is constant urine exposure?