Procedure - Nasogastric Tube

Question 1

NG tubes are often thought to be the most __________ procedure done in the ED.

Answer 1

painful/uncomfortable

Question 2

Common problems of NG tubes: ____________.

Answer 2

coiling, epistaxis, esophageal perforation, or placement into the airway

Question 3

Review the steps of NG tube placement.

Answer 3

1) Anesthetize (atomized or nebulized lidocaine)
2) Vasoconstrictor in the nose
3) Measure tube from nose to ear lobe to 5 cm below the xiphoid
4) Insert while having patient swallow water
5) Aspirate gastric contents
6) Insufflate
7) CXR

Question 4

What are types of NG tubes?

Answer 4

• Salem Sump
• Corpak
• Levin (single lumen)
• SBFT (small bowel feeding tube)