(5)
(6)
Auscultation reveals decreased or absent bowel sounds.
b. Contraindications to Use Nasogastric Intubation. DO NOT use
nasogastric intubation in the following circumstances:
(1)
Facial fractures with suspected cribriform plate injuries.
(2) Esophageal strictures or a history of alkali ingestion. Intubation would
increase the possibility of esophageal perforation.
(3) Comatose patients with unprotected airway. Nasogastric intubation
increases the risk of aspiration.
(4) Penetrating cervical wounds in a conscious trauma patient. The gagging
efforts could stimulate hemorrhage.
5-3.
COMPLICATIONS DUE TO USE OF NASOGASTRIC INTUBATION
There are some complications associated with using a nasogastric tube. The
nasopharynx and other related upper airway structures may suffer injury or damage.
The esophagus and stomach may be injured. The tube may be accidentally inserted
through the trachea causing oxygen deficiency. If the tube remains in place for a long
time, the following conditions may occur:
a. Nasal erosion--irritation and gradual wearing away of the membranes lining
the nose, the condition being caused by the presence and rubbing of the nasogastric
tube.
b. Sinusitis--the inflammation of the mucous membrane of a sinus, particularly a
paranasal sinus.
c. Esophagitis--inflammation of the esophagus.
d. Gastric ulceration--ulcers of the stomach, usually on or near the smallest
curve of the stomach.
e. Pulmonary infection--infection of the lungs.
f. Other respiratory tract infections-- pneumonia from the tube being placed into
the patient's right lower lobe bronchus; hydropneumothorax (collection of fluid and gas
within the pleural cavity) caused by the tube being placed in the bronchial airways.
g. Gastrointestinal bleeding--caused by the tube damaging gastrointestinal
lining.
MD0581
5-3