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Passing a nasogastric tube

Authoring team

To pass a nasogastric tube:

  • sit the patient up
  • measuring the distance required from the nose to the epigastrium using a 16 to 20 gauge tube
  • lubricate the end of the tube
  • give the patient some ice to suck
  • put the tube into the patient's nose
  • gently pass it back, asking the patient to swallow
  • push the tube the measured distance, aspirate back and test the secretions with pH paper - it should be acid.
  • rapidly inject 20 ml of air down the tube whilst listening over the stomach for a gurgling sound

If the procedure fails a smaller diameter tube can be used. Alternatively a larger bore tube, or a tube kept in a fridge may give the extra rigidity required for passage. Having confirmed that the tube is in the stomach, it is secured in place with tape.

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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