A nasogastric (NG) tube is a common medical device providing temporary access to the stomach through a minimally invasive pathway. This flexible tube is guided through the nose, down the throat, and into the stomach. It serves various medical interventions when oral intake is not possible or advisable. NG tubes are used in both short-term and acute medical settings.
What an NG Tube Is
An NG tube is a thin, flexible tube inserted through the nasal cavity into the stomach. These tubes are crafted from soft, biocompatible materials like silicone, polyurethane, or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), chosen for flexibility and patient comfort. Material choice influences stiffness and duration of use; for example, PVC tubes are stiffer and suited for short-term applications, often less than seven days. NG tubes come in various diameters, measured in French (Fr) units, where each unit is one-third of a millimeter. Sizes range from 3.5 Fr for neonates to 14 Fr for adults, with larger sizes up to 24 Fr for specific drainage.
Why NG Tubes Are Used
NG tubes serve several medical functions, including gastric decompression, nutritional support, gastric lavage, and specimen collection. Gastric decompression involves removing air and fluid from the stomach, alleviating pressure, nausea, and vomiting caused by conditions like bowel obstructions or ileus. This process is useful after surgery to promote bowel rest and prevent distension.
Nutritional support is provided through enteral feeding, delivering liquid nutrients, water, and medications directly to the stomach. This method is used for individuals unable to safely swallow or consume enough food orally, such as those with swallowing difficulties, neurological conditions, or during recovery. NG tubes ensure patients receive essential calories and hydration when oral intake is compromised.
Gastric lavage involves washing out the stomach, often in emergencies like poisoning or drug overdose, to remove ingested toxic materials. This rapid removal limits the absorption of harmful substances. NG tubes are also used for diagnostic purposes, enabling collection of stomach content samples. These samples are analyzed to identify issues like gastrointestinal bleeding or for other diagnostic testing.
Living with an NG Tube
NG tube insertion can cause temporary discomfort, though the procedure is quick and performed by a healthcare professional. The tube is lubricated and guided through a nostril, with the individual often asked to swallow to aid its passage into the esophagus and stomach. Proper placement is confirmed by X-ray or by testing the pH of aspirated stomach contents to ensure correct positioning, not in the lungs.
Once placed, the tube is secured to the nose and cheek with tape to prevent dislodgement. Daily care involves cleaning the insertion site around the nose with warm water and a clean cloth to prevent irritation and infection. Regular flushing with water prevents blockages, especially after administering feeds or medications.
Individuals with an NG tube may experience common sensations like throat irritation, nasal dryness, or a feeling of fullness. While not painful, some discomfort is expected, and healthcare providers can offer strategies like anesthetic sprays or gels to minimize it during insertion. The tube’s duration depends on medical necessity, and it is removed once the patient’s condition improves and oral intake becomes safe and adequate.