(5)
Drainage in the collection bottle.
g. If no drainage is observed to be moving through the tube, and all equipment
is operational, the tube may be obstructed. Failure to drain may be due to mucous
clogging the tube or due to the end of the tube adhering to the wall of the stomach. If
this is the case, attempt to clear the obstruction by one of the following nursing
measures.
(1) Change the patient's position by turning him or by raising or lowering the
head of the bed.
(2) Reposition the nasogastric tube. Loosen the tape and withdraw the tube
about an inch.
(3) If neither. of the above methods are successful notify the professional
nurse The physician may order irrigation of the tube to clear the obstruction.
1-32. DISCONTINUE SUCTION
To discontinue suction, complete the following steps.
a. Clamp off the nasogastric tube.
b. Turn off the suction apparatus.
c. Protect the open end of the nasogastric tube by covering loosely with a gauze
dressing.
d. Take the suction equipment to the utility room.
e. Measure the drainage. Record on I&O worksheet.
f. Dispose of used equipment per local ward SOP.
g. Record the procedure in the nurse's notes. Note the color, character, and
amount of drainage.
h. Do not remove a nasogastric tube unless specifically ordered.
1-33. INTESTINAL DECOMPRESSION
Intestinal decompression accomplished by intubation and application of suction is
similar in many respects to gastrointestinal suction drainage with a nasogastric tube.
Important differences include the following considerations:
a. Intubation is done by the medical officer.
MD0918
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