RYLE'S TUBE / INTUBATION
RYLE'S TUBE / INTUBATION
A nasogastric tube is a narrow-bore tube passed into the stomach via the nose. It is used for short- or medium-term nutritional support, and also for aspiration of stomach contents - eg, for decompression of intestinal obstruction
A wide-bore tube is used if drainage is needed; otherwise, a finer-bore tube is used. Fine-bore feeding tubes (gauge less than 9) cause less discomfort and less risk of rhinitis, pharyngitis or oesophageal erosion.
The use of a nasogastric tube is suitable for enteral feeding for up to six weeks. Polyurethane or silicone feeding tubes are unaffected by gastric acid and can therefore remain in the stomach for a longer period than PVC tubes, which can only be used for up to two weeks. For long-term enteral feeding, the use of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is associated with improved survival, better tolerance by the patient and lower incidence of aspiration.
Inserting a nasogastric tube
- Explain the procedure and obtain consent.
- Provide a signal for the patient to stop the procedure.
- Sit the patient in a semi-upright position with the head supported with pillows and tilted neither backwards nor forwards.
- Examine the nostrils for deformity or obstructions to determine the best side for insertion.
- Measure the tubing from the bridge of the nose to the earlobe, then to the point halfway between the lower end of the sternum and the navel.
- Mark the measured length with a marker or note the distance.
- Lubricate 2-4 inches of tube with lubricant (eg, 2% Xylocaine®).
- Pass the tube via either nostril, past the pharynx, into the oesophagus and then into the stomach
- Instruct the patient to swallow and advance the tube as the patient swallows (sipping a glass of water helps).
- If resistance is met, rotate the tube slowly while advancing downwards. Do not force.
- Stop immediately and withdraw the tube if the patient becomes distressed, starts gasping or coughing, becomes cyanosed or if the tube coils in the mouth.
- Advance the tube until the mark is reached.
- Check the tube's position (see below).
- Secure the tube with tape.
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