Nasogastric Tubes

Nasogastric (NG) tubes are a type of enteral feeding tube that is inserted through the nose and down the esophagus into the stomach. They are used to provide nutrition to patients who are unable to consume food by mouth, either temporarily or permanently.

The procedure to insert a nasogastric tube is typically done by a trained healthcare professional, such as a nurse or a doctor. The patient is usually awake and may be given a local anesthetic to numb the nose and throat. The tube is then passed through the nose, down the back of the throat, and into the stomach. The tube is anchored in place with a retention device to prevent it from coming out.

NG tubes are commonly used for short-term enteral feeding for patients with conditions such as:

• Acute or chronic illness that affects swallowing
• Surgery that affects swallowing
• Trauma that affects swallowing
• Neurological disorders that affect swallowing

NG tubes are usually removed after the patient is able to eat and swallow food by mouth. They are designed to be used for a specific period of time and they are typically replaced on a regular basis to ensure proper hygiene and to avoid complications.