b.
Nasogastric Tube. The procedures to insert a nasogastric tube to
administer intestinal decompression therapy to a postoperative patient are given below.
(1)
Wash your hands and assemble all needed equipment.
(a)
NG (Levin) tube.
(b) Irrigating set which includes: a basin, lubricant (water-soluble),
towel, solution container, irrigating syringe, and protector cap or tube plug.
(c)
Tape.
(d)
Tissues.
(e)
Stethoscope.
(f)
Glass of water and straw.
(g)
Nasogastric suction apparatus (as needed).
(2)
Identify and approach the patient, explain what you are going to do,
(3)
Provide for patient's privacy.
(4)
Position the patient.
(a) The Fowler's position is usually assumed because it enables
the tube to move by gravity down the digestive tract.
(b) Hand the emesis basin and the tissues to the patient or place
the emesis basin close beside the patient's face with the tissues near the pillow.
(5)
Check the airflow through the patient's nostril.
(a)
Close one side of the patient's nose and check the airflow
through the other.
(b)
Pass the tube through the nostril with the best airflow.
(c) If changing the NG (Levin) tube, insert it in the nostril other than
the one previously used to avoid further irritation of the tissue.
MD0915
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