NG Tube Placement
• What is an NG tube?
• What are the 2 major actions that an NG tube facilitates?
• In what clinical situations might an NG tube be ordered?
• In what clinical situations should you question an order to place an NG tube?
• What does the order NPO indicate?
• What is the standard, evidence-based practice for verifying NG tube placement?
• What assessment(s) should you make before placing an NG tube? (measure length, assess nasal patency)
• What three points are used to measure NG tube length to be inserted?
• What position should the client be placed in for NG tube insertion?
• How should the nurse instruct the patient to help as the NG tube is inserted? (sip water and swallow)
• What item should the nurse use to ensure the NG tube is not displaced after insertion? (securement device)
• What should you document following NG tube insertion?
• What instruction should be given to the patient before the NG tube is removed? (inhale rapidly and hold your breath)
• Is NG tube placement or removal a sterile/aseptic technique?
• A client with an NG tube set to low intermittent suction is at risk for what common complication? (electrolyte disturbance/imbalance)
