5 ways to Simplify Nasogastric Tube Usage


A nasogastric (NG) tube is a flexible plastic tube that is inserted via the nostrils, and goes down the nasopharynx, all the way into the stomach. The location and the correct installation of these tubes is confirmed with an X-ray before its usage. A commonly used nasogastric tube is Rylestube for feeding patients who cannot eat orally.

Usage

NG tubes are basically used for:

1.       Providing nutrients to the patient with the assistance of a feeding pump
2.       Removal of contents which are gastric in nature

Procedure

The tube is attached to the patient with the help of a nose clip, and it is then fastened to the patient’s garment to make sure that the tube is not removed accidentally. It is also done to avoid the tube from slipping into the lungs from the stomach area.

There are many ways in which the usage of NG tubes can be simplified:

1.      Proper attachment

Comfort is of utmost importance. Since the tube is fastened in the nose, it constantly irritates the nasal mucosa, and causes a lot of discomfort. To reduce the discomfort, the tube must be securely positioned in the patient’s nose in order to prevent excess movement.

2.      Mouth care

As one of the nostrils is blocked, patients use their mouths to breathe. This leads to dehydration of the nasal and oral mucosa, causing a sensation of thirst amongst patients. Proper mouth care can help with such a situation. One must rinse the mouth with cold water and mouthwash, making sure not to swallow it. One can even suck on ice on the doctor’s approval.

3.      Immediate consultation

If there are any complains of abdominal pain, discomfort, or nausea, it must be reported to the doctor immediately. It might mean that the drainage flow is obstructed, and the tube might need to be irrigated.

4.      Posture

Lying flat is strictly prohibited after the installation of this tube. It increases the risk of aspirating stomach contents. Hence, make sure that the head of the bed is always raised by 30 degrees or higher.

5.      While inserting

As a patient, you must be aware of the conditions needed before inserting the tube. Make sure that the doctor exercises complete hand hygiene before positioning the tube, to avoid any infection. The people assisting the doctor must know the procedure by heart. It is important to have all the assessments done prior to the procedure. There should not be any scope for misdemeanour or lack of hygiene, and you must be comfortable and confident about your doctor.

These tubes, along with the best glucometer in India can be found online at Smart Medical Buyer.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Difference between Laryngeal Mask and Endotracheal Tube

Image
During critical medical conditions or surgeries, breathing properly becomes a strenuous activity for the patients. Providing a support for maintaining a regular breathing pattern becomes necessary. That is when the practice of endotracheal intubation started. Endotracheal intubation is a procedure in which a tube is inserted through the mouth and is slowly slid into the trachea. The flexible plastic tube that is slipped into the trachea is known as the endotracheal tube. The procedure is mostly done when the patient is under deep sedation. Endotracheal intubation was important to serve the patients a free airway passage to breathe. Air can easily pass through the endotracheal tube all the way to the lungs and keep them ventilated. They can also be connected to ventilation machines to support artificial respiration. In critical conditions, artificial respiration helps patients immensely to breathe comfortably a rhythm that is regularly monitored by Littmann stethoscopes in In...
Read more

How to Set up a 3 way Foley Catheter Efficiently

Image
The 3 way Foley Catheter is a common medical equipment used by patients who have undergone a bladder surgery. It is used to ensure urinary drainage after bladder or upper urinary tract surgeries, and thus adds continuous irrigation capabilities. Primary functions include help remove the tissue chips, blood clots, and other debris from the bladder after surgery. A Foley catheter is basically a thin, sterile tube inserted into the bladder to drain urine. It is also known by its pseudonym 'indwelling catheter' as it can be left in place inside the bladder for a period of time. There are different stages to setting up a 3 way Foley Catheter. Read on: Replacing the catheter: Before removing the   old catheter, measuring the depth of catheter insertion can be helpful. Draw a tiny line with a marker about one inch away from your genitals. Now, while inserting the new catheter you already know how deep it was inserted, so you can do it accordingly. If there are st...
Read more

Recovery after Surgery for Children

Image
Recovery after surgery is not easy, especially for kids who may get overwhelmed by the unfamiliar sights and not understand the reason for the uncomfortable feeling. But if as parents you know what to expect post-surgery and take little time to plan ahead, it will help your child cope better with the discomfort. Though the doctor will give you a set of instructions about how to take care of your child at home, you can also refer to the following proven methods for taking good care of your child post-surgery: EATING AND DRINKING: your child’s doctor will decide when he can start eating and drinking after the surgery. Do note that the child will start off slowly, by consuming clear liquids like water, apple juice and ginger ale. If your child does not vomit, you can start giving light meals like soups and toasts. Don’t force them to eat in the beginning, but do make sure that they take in plenty of fluids and stays hydrated. PAIN: complications may occur after surgery...
Read more