NG/ Nutrition

Which of the following is the most accurate method to confirm the correct placement of a nasogastric (NG) tube before feeding?

• Checking the external length of the NG tube

• Auscultating a "whoosh" sound after air insufflation into the NG tube

• Testing the pH of gastric aspirate

• Observing for coughing or choking

What is the recommended position for the patient during nasogastric tube insertion?

• Sitting upright (90 degrees)

• Prone

• Semi-Fowler’s (30-45 degrees)

• Left lateral

When inserting an NG tube, resistance is felt at the nasal passage. What is the most appropriate nursing action?

• Apply more pressure to push the tube through

• Rotate the tube slightly and advance

• Remove the tube and attempt insertion on the opposite side

• Ask the patient to swallow water while advancing the tube

What is the primary risk associated with feeding through a nasogastric tube that is not correctly placed?

• Vomiting
  

• Nasal irritation
  

• Abdominal discomfort

• Pneumonia

Which of the following is a contraindication for nasogastric tube insertion?

• Unconscious patient

• Nausea and vomiting

• Patient with a cough reflex
  

• Recent nasal surgery

What is the rationale for flushing the NG tube with water before and after feeding?

• To maintain tube patency

• To ensure better flow

• To prevent dehydration

• To clean out any feed residue

A patient on continuous NG tube feeding is exhibiting signs of abdominal distension. What is the best immediate nursing action?

• Slow the feeding rate

• Increase the water flushes

• Stop the feeding and check residual volume

• Elevate the patient's head to 90 degrees

A patient with an order of 250 mls Ensure is due for feeding. Before administering the next feed, the nurse checks the gastric residual volume and finds 200 mL of aspirate. What should be the nurse’s next action?

• Increase the rate of feeding to compensate for the residual

• Hold the feed and notify the physician

• Discard the aspirate and proceed with feeding

• Flush the tube with water and proceed with feeding