Comprehensive Guide to NG Tube Insertion Steps

Step 1

*perform appropriate hand hygiene

Step 2

*verify order (type of tube needed and reason for order)

Step 3

gather supplies: ng tube, anti-reflux valve, lubrication, nasal securing device, patient protective equipment, cup and straw with water, suction equipment

Step 4

*Identify patient/verifies patient name and DOB with arm band

Step 5

Introduce self and explain procedure

Step 6

Gather patient history: nasal surgery, broken nose, deviated septum, trans-nasal surgeries, gastric surgeries

Step 7

*put on gloves

Step 8

Verify nostril with best airflow or preference

Step 9

place patient in high fowlers

Step 10

establishes a distress signal

Step 11

measure tube from nose to earlobe to diploid process

Step 12

mark measure insertion length with tape

Step 13

lubricate tube

Step 14

insert ng tube, tilt head back and insert 4-6 inches, then tilt head forward chin to chest and continue insertion, encourage patient to swallow whiling advancing tube, then insert to measured placement length

Step 15

*observe for sign of distress, cyanosis, coughing during insertion

Step 16

Secure tube to nose

Step 17

verify tube placement, pH of aspirated contents, x-ray

Step 18

appropriate suction settings

Step 19

verbalize documentation of insertion depth, verification