Inserting a Nasogastric Tube (NGT)

There are two main indications for nasogastric tube insertion via the nostril and into the client’s stomach.

• Enteral feeding
• Drainage of gastric content

These are two very different clinical indicators for the insertion of a nasogastric tube; therefore, the indication for the nasogastric tube will guide the care of the tube.

Enteral feeding is a method of supplying nutrients directly into the gastrointestinal tract. A wide range of clients may require enteral feeding either for a short or extended period of time for a variety of reasons including:

• poor nutritional intake
• impaired swallowing/sucking across the life span from neonates to geriatrics
• facial or oesophageal structural abnormalities
• anorexia related to a chronic illness
• eating disorders
• primary disease management.

Enteral feeding tubes may also be used to administer medications.

Insertion of a nasogastric tube for drainage may also occur:

• to facilitate drainage and aspiration of the stomach contents
• for decompression of the stomach
• to diagnose upper gastrointestinal tract bleeding.

It is vital that correct placement of the nasogastric tube is confirmed by

• aspirating stomach content and assessing pH
• X-ray to confirm the tube is placed in the stomach and not in the respiratory tract.