Gastric lavage, commonly known as “stomach pumping,” is a medical procedure used to clear the stomach’s contents. It is employed in emergency situations to rapidly remove ingested substances.
Understanding Gastric Lavage
Gastric lavage involves flushing the stomach to remove harmful substances. This procedure is typically employed in cases of acute poisoning or overdose to prevent toxic substances from being absorbed into the bloodstream.
A large tube is inserted into the stomach, through which fluid is introduced and then removed. While historically a common method, its use has become more selective over time.
The Procedure and Its Duration
A healthcare professional inserts a large, lubricated tube through the mouth and into the stomach. Proper placement is confirmed by aspirating stomach contents, checking pH, or through X-ray to ensure it is not in the lungs.
Once the tube is correctly positioned, small volumes of fluid, usually warmed saline or water, are instilled into the stomach. This fluid is then drained out, either by gravity or gentle suction. This cycle of instilling and draining is repeated until the fluid returning from the stomach appears clear, indicating that most of the substance has been removed. The active lavage process can take approximately 15 to 30 minutes, though some sources suggest up to an hour. This duration refers specifically to the active washing out of the stomach contents.
Factors Affecting Treatment Time
The overall time a patient spends undergoing gastric lavage and related immediate care can vary significantly. The type and amount of ingested substance play a role; for instance, solids may take longer to remove than liquids. The patient’s condition, including their level of consciousness and cooperation, also influences the procedure’s duration. Unconscious patients often require intubation to protect their airway before the procedure, which adds to the total time.
Complications such as aspiration, where stomach contents enter the lungs, can prolong post-procedure monitoring and overall hospital stay. The equipment available and the medical team’s experience also contribute to the process’s efficiency. While the active lavage might be relatively quick, preparation, monitoring, and post-procedure care extend the total time a patient is involved in the treatment.
Comprehensive Patient Care
Gastric lavage is part of a broader medical response to poisoning or overdose. Before the procedure, initial patient assessment and stabilization are performed. This includes evaluating vital signs and securing the airway, especially for unconscious individuals. Preparing the patient also involves correct positioning, such as in a left lateral decubitus position with the head slightly lowered, to reduce the risk of aspiration.
After the lavage, continuous monitoring for potential complications is important. Healthcare providers watch for signs of aspiration, electrolyte imbalances, or hypothermia. Often, activated charcoal is administered to absorb any remaining toxins in the gastrointestinal tract. This comprehensive approach ensures the patient receives complete care beyond just the stomach-flushing procedure.
Current Medical Practice
The use of gastric lavage in modern medicine has evolved. While once a common intervention for poisoning, its routine application has decreased. This shift is due to concerns about its efficacy and the availability of more effective, less invasive alternatives, such as activated charcoal. Studies indicate that the amount of toxin removed by lavage can be highly variable and diminishes rapidly with time.
Gastric lavage is now reserved for specific, limited situations. It may be considered for life-threatening ingestions of highly toxic substances, especially if performed within 60 minutes of ingestion. It is generally avoided in cases of corrosive substance ingestion due to the risk of esophageal perforation or if the patient has an unprotected airway. The decision to perform gastric lavage is made on a case-by-case basis, often in consultation with a poison control center or toxicologist.