1-35. NASOGASTRIC TUBE IRRIGATION
a. Introduction.
(1) Irrigate only on order by the physician. (The type and amount of solution
and frequency of irrigation must be specified.)
(2) Measure amounts of irrigating solution accurately and record on the I&O
(Intake and Output) worksheet as specified by local Department of Nursing SOP.
(3) Do not use the syringe to aspirate back the irrigating solution unless
ordered to do so; ordinarily, all solution used to irrigate and clear the tube will be
(4) Do not use a Luer-type syringe unless so ordered. An asepto (bulb)
syringe or catheter-tip syringe is recommended for use because less pressure is
exerted.
b. Equipment.
(1)
Irrigation kit (or solution bowl, emesis basin, and a 30-50 ml syringe).
(2)
Solution ordered (at room temperature, unless otherwise specified).
(3)
Rubber-shod hemostat forceps, 2.
c. Procedure.
(1)
Pour solution into bowl.
(2)
Clamp drainage tubing.
(3) Place emesis basin under connecting tip between nasogastric tube and
drainage tubing.
(4) Clamp N/G tube (or pinch off with fingers) and disconnect N/G tube from
the drainage tubing.
NOTE:
If suction drainage is not in use, it will be necessary to check the placement
of the nasogastric tube by other means. Gentle aspiration with a syringe to
check for stomach contents will verify that the tube is in the stomach.
(5) Fill syringe, insert syringe tip into N/G tube, and unclamp tube. Gently
inject a small amount of solution. If fluid flows in freely, the tube is open. Continue to
irrigate until the prescribed amount has been injected.
MD0918
1-30