Nasogastric Tube Confirmation

General · General · 10–20 min

Confirming NGT position before feeding or drug administration.

Indications

  • Post-insertion
  • Before any feeding/drugs
  • Displacement suspected

Equipment

  • 50 mL syringe
  • pH paper
  • CXR if inconclusive

Positioning

  • As appropriate for the procedure and patient comfort.

Consent

  • Explain indication, benefits, alternatives
  • Explain risks & complications
  • Obtain written/verbal consent as per SOP
  • Document consent

Universal precautions

  • Hand hygiene
  • PPE — gloves, mask, eye protection
  • Aseptic technique
  • Sharps safety
  • Verify patient identity & site

Step-by-step (0/4)

Tap to complete

1. Aspirate

5–10 mL gastric contents.

2. Test pH

3. If unable to aspirate

4. CXR

Immediate complications

  • Feeding into lung if misidentified

Prevention

  • Confirm before every use

Post-procedure observation

  • Vitals q15min × 1h then hourly

Monitoring

  • Site inspection
  • Symptom review

Documentation

  • Procedure note
  • Consent
  • Findings

Patient instructions

  • Report pain, bleeding, fever, worsening symptoms

Educational bedside guide. Perform only under supervision until competent. Follow local SOPs and consent policy.

WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds