Nonaseptic Techniques and Gastrointestinal Procedures

Nonaseptic Technique

Procedures that involve nonsterile methods, typically involving tubes and lines into the digestive tract.

NG tubes

Used for administration of medications, gastric decompression, and enteral feeding.

Characteristics of NG tubes

Plastic or rubber tubes inserted through the nasopharynx into the stomach.

Discomfort in patients with NG tube

Patients usually experience some discomfort with an NG tube in place.

Who is responsible for inserting an NG tube?

Typically a physician or nurse.

NG tube transport protocol

Confirm physician's order, know length of allowed suction interruption, reestablish suction in the radiology department.

Features of male urinals

Plastic, disposable, designed for use while supine, in side positions, or in Fowler position.

Key hygiene practice with urinals

Wash hands before and after assisting the patient.

Usage of bedpans

Used for defecation and urination, requiring hand washing and gloves.

Fracture bedpan

A wedge-shaped bedpan allowing slight elevation of hips for placement.

Colonoscopy

A procedure performed by a physician for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Sensitivity of colonoscopy for lesions

>95% sensitivity.

Virtual colonoscopy

A CT procedure gaining popularity; used for diagnostic purposes only.

Components of colon preparation

Includes stool softeners, oil-based solutions, dietary restrictions, and hydration.

Barium enema diagnosis

Pathologic conditions of the colon or lower gastrointestinal tract.

Administration method of barium enema

Administered via a catheter with either a plain tip or inflatable cuff.

Characteristics of barium as a contrast agent

High atomic number (#56), may be premixed or in powder form.

Double contrast barium enema

Uses air and barium to outline colon mucosa, excellent for polyps or history of colorectal cancer.

Advice to patients during barium enema procedure

Keep tip firmly in the rectum, relax abdominal muscles, and use deep oral breathing.

Post-procedure instructions after barium ingestion

Drink 8-10 glasses of water to help return stool to normal color.

Important contraindications for barium use

Possible obstruction, possible perforation, pre or post-surgery within 48 hours.

Typical stool color after barium enema

Stools are usually gray or white until barium is fully defecated.

What should patients increase after a barium enema?

Patients should increase their fluid intake.

Fluid intake after barium enema

Patients should increase fluid intake and dietary fiber for several days.

Colostomy patients' concerns

Sensitivity to lifestyle changes and potential wound infections.

Role of radiographers in NG tube management

May assist in inserting and removing NG tubes.

Cleansing enema types

Tap water, hypertonic, saline, oil retention, soapsuds solution.

Barium preparation forms

Thin (pink label), thick (green label), powder (black label).

Cleansing enema purpose

Used for bowel cleansing and promoting defecation prior to procedures.

Instructions for using a barium enema

Patients are advised on maintaining fluid levels and proper elimination of barium.

Special considerations for double-contrast barium enemas

Patient positioned prone and administered both barium and air.

Importance of patient education in procedures

Critical for ensuring understanding and compliance with pre and post-procedure instructions.

Post-examination care for patients

Instruct patients to rest after the examination.

Best practices for helping patients with ostomies during exams

Be sensitive to their comfort and personal circumstances.

Transporting a patient with an NG tube

Length of time suction may be discontinued must be known.

Reasons for decreasing frequency of barium enemas

Due to the increased use of colonoscopy and CT examinations.

Key aspects of nonaseptic procedures

Include examinations of the gastrointestinal tract.

Essential for managing colostomy patients

Understanding their unique circumstances and providing appropriate care.

Function of a cleansing enema

To prepare the bowel for diagnostic testing.

Uncommon effect of barium retention

Can cause dehydration in patients.

Removing an inflatable rectal catheter

The cuff must be deflated before removal.

Importance of proper handling of a barium enema tip

To prevent involuntary expulsion of barium.

Providing privacy for patients with urinals

Ensure privacy during their use.

Considerations for patients undergoing barium studies

Patient comfort and understanding of the procedure are crucial.

Patient's responsibilities before a colon examination

Following bowel prep instructions and managing hydration.

Role of hydration before colon procedures

Important for maintaining fluid levels and blood pressure.

Role of dietary restrictions in colon preparation

To minimize bowel content and facilitate clearer imaging results.

Recommended diet before a colon exam

A low-residue diet to prepare the bowel.