Check the patient’s identity and confirm the procedure order
2
Explain the procedure to the patient and gain consent
3
Gather necessary equipment including nasogastric tube, water-soluble lubricant, syringe, clean gloves, tissue, adhesive tape, stethoscope and pH testing strips
4
Wash hands and don gloves
5
Measure the tube for insertion length
6
Lubricate the tube
7
Put patient in appropriate position (usually sitting/reclining)
8
Insert tube into nostril and gently advance
9
Have patient take sips of water as needed to help ease tube insertion
10
Advance tube to predetermined length
11
Confirm placement of tube by aspirating gastric content
12
Approval: Nurse Manager's review of initial tube placement
13
Secure the tube with adhesive tape on patient’s cheek or nose
14
Verify tube placement through X-ray
15
Approval: Radiologist confirmation of tube placement
16
Document the procedure including the patient’s tolerance, tube length inserted, and confirmation methods used
17
Educate patient/carer on care and potential complications of having a nasogastric tube
18
Monitor patient's condition following the procedure
19
Clean and dispose of used equipment properly
Check the patient’s identity and confirm the procedure order
Before beginning the nasogastric tube insertion procedure, it is essential to verify the patient's identity and confirm the order for the procedure. This ensures that the right patient is receiving the correct treatment. Confirming the procedure order eliminates the possibility of any confusion or errors. To complete this task, ask the patient to state their name and compare it with their identification wristband. Additionally, double-check the patient's medical records or electronic order to validate the procedure. Required resources: Patient's identification wristband, patient's medical records or electronic order
Explain the procedure to the patient and gain consent
It is crucial to inform the patient about the nasogastric tube insertion procedure and obtain their consent before proceeding. Explaining the procedure to the patient helps alleviate any anxiety or fears they may have. Obtaining consent ensures that the patient understands the procedure, its risks, benefits, and alternatives, and gives their permission for the healthcare team to perform the procedure. To complete this task, explain the nasogastric tube insertion procedure in simple terms, emphasizing its purpose and the expected sensations. Allow the patient to ask any questions or voice concerns. Once the patient demonstrates understanding and provides consent, document the consent appropriately. Required resources: Patient education materials, informed consent form
1
Obtained
2
Not Obtained
Gather necessary equipment including nasogastric tube, water-soluble lubricant, syringe, clean gloves, tissue, adhesive tape, stethoscope and pH testing strips
Before starting the nasogastric tube insertion procedure, it is important to gather all the required equipment. Having the necessary equipment readily available ensures a smooth and efficient process. To complete this task, gather the following items: nasogastric tube, water-soluble lubricant, syringe, clean gloves, tissue, adhesive tape, stethoscope, and pH testing strips. Make sure the equipment is clean and in good working condition. Required resources: Nasogastric tube, water-soluble lubricant, syringe, clean gloves, tissue, adhesive tape, stethoscope, pH testing strips
1
Nasogastric Tube
2
Water-soluble Lubricant
3
Syringe
4
Clean Gloves
5
Tissue
6
Adhesive Tape
7
Stethoscope
8
pH Testing Strips
Wash hands and don gloves
Proper hand hygiene and wearing gloves are essential steps to prevent the spread of infection during the nasogastric tube insertion procedure. To complete this task, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available. Then, put on a clean pair of gloves. Required resources: Soap, water, alcohol-based hand sanitizer, gloves
Measure the tube for insertion length
Before inserting the nasogastric tube, it is important to measure the appropriate insertion length. Correct measurement ensures that the tube reaches the desired location within the gastrointestinal tract without causing discomfort or complications. To complete this task, measure the nasogastric tube from the tip of the patient's nose to the earlobe, and then to the xiphoid process. Mark the appropriate insertion length on the tube using a removable marker. Required resources: Nasogastric tube, removable marker
Lubricate the tube
Lubrication of the nasogastric tube facilitates its smooth insertion and minimizes discomfort to the patient. To complete this task, apply a water-soluble lubricant to the distal end of the nasogastric tube. Make sure to use an adequate amount of lubricant to ensure a comfortable insertion process. Required resources: Water-soluble lubricant
Put patient in appropriate position (usually sitting/reclining)
Positioning the patient correctly is crucial for the comfort and success of the nasogastric tube insertion procedure. To complete this task, position the patient sitting or reclining with their head slightly raised. This allows for easy access to the nasal passage and facilitates smooth tube insertion. Required resources: None
1
Sitting
2
Reclining
Insert tube into nostril and gently advance
Carefully inserting the nasogastric tube into the nostril is the next step in the procedure. It is important to proceed gently to avoid any injury or discomfort to the patient. To complete this task, insert the nasogastric tube through the chosen nostril, advancing it slowly and gently. Ask the patient to breathe through their mouth to facilitate the insertion process. Assess the patient's comfort level and communicate with them throughout the procedure. Required resources: Nasogastric tube
1
Comfortable
2
Slightly Uncomfortable
3
Uncomfortable
Have patient take sips of water as needed to help ease tube insertion
In some cases, having the patient take sips of water can assist in the smooth insertion of the nasogastric tube. To complete this task, provide the patient with small sips of water and instruct them to swallow as you advance the tube. This helps lubricate the throat and esophagus, facilitating the tube's passage into the stomach. Required resources: Water
Advance tube to predetermined length
Advancing the nasogastric tube to the predetermined length ensures proper placement within the gastrointestinal tract. To complete this task, continue advancing the nasogastric tube gently while monitoring the marked insertion length. Stop advancing once the tube reaches the predetermined length. Required resources: Nasogastric tube, marked insertion length
Confirm placement of tube by aspirating gastric content
Confirming the accurate placement of the nasogastric tube is crucial before proceeding further. Aspirating gastric content provides confirmation that the tube is in the stomach and not in the respiratory tract. To complete this task, attach a syringe to the nasogastric tube and withdraw a small sample of gastric content. Observe the appearance and pH of the aspirate to confirm gastric placement. Required resources: Syringe, pH testing strips
1
Clear
2
Cloudy
3
Bloody
1
<3
2
3-5
3
>5
Approval: Nurse Manager's review of initial tube placement
Will be submitted for approval:
Insert tube into nostril and gently advance
Will be submitted
Secure the tube with adhesive tape on patient’s cheek or nose
Properly securing the nasogastric tube prevents accidental removal and ensures its stability during the patient's treatment. To complete this task, use adhesive tape to secure the nasogastric tube in position on either the patient's cheek or nose, according to the patient's comfort and facility protocol. Ensure that the tape is not too tight, allowing for easy removal if necessary. Required resources: Adhesive tape
Verify tube placement through X-ray
Verifying the placement of the nasogastric tube through X-ray provides conclusive evidence of its accurate positioning within the gastrointestinal tract. To complete this task, order or request an X-ray to verify the nasogastric tube's placement. Consult the radiology department regarding their protocols for requesting or performing the X-ray. Required resources: Radiology department, X-ray request form
Approval: Radiologist confirmation of tube placement
Will be submitted for approval:
Confirm placement of tube by aspirating gastric content
Will be submitted
Document the procedure including the patient’s tolerance, tube length inserted, and confirmation methods used
Accurate and complete documentation of the nasogastric tube insertion procedure is essential for continuity of care and future reference. To complete this task, document the procedure details, including the patient's tolerance level, the length of tube inserted, and the confirmation methods used. Use the appropriate electronic or paper form for documentation. Required resources: Documentation form
1
Aspiration of Gastric Content
2
X-ray Verification
3
Both
Educate patient/carer on care and potential complications of having a nasogastric tube
Patient and carer education regarding nasogastric tube care and potential complications is crucial for ensuring safe and effective management after the procedure. To complete this task, provide clear and comprehensive education regarding the care and maintenance of the nasogastric tube. Also, explain the potential complications that may arise, such as infection, displacement, or blockage. Answer any questions the patient or carer may have to ensure their understanding. Required resources: Patient education materials
Monitor patient's condition following the procedure
Monitoring the patient's condition after the nasogastric tube insertion procedure helps identify any adverse events or complications that may require immediate attention. To complete this task, observe the patient closely for any signs of discomfort, bleeding, respiratory distress, or other complications. Document the patient's condition and notify the healthcare provider of any concerning observations. Required resources: Observation chart
Clean and dispose of used equipment properly
Proper cleaning and disposal of used equipment helps maintain a clean and safe environment for patients and healthcare providers. To complete this task, clean all reusable equipment according to facility protocols, ensuring thorough disinfection or sterilization. Discard single-use items in the appropriate waste receptacles. Maintain a clean and organized workspace. Required resources: Cleaning supplies, waste receptacles
