NGT suctioning, or nasogastric tube suctioning, is the process of using a nasogastric tube to remove substances from the stomach. This procedure is used to relieve pressure and remove toxins from the stomach.
Understanding Nasogastric Tubes and Suctioning
A nasogastric tube (NGT) is a flexible tube inserted through the nose, down the esophagus, and into the stomach. NGTs serve multiple purposes, including:
- Feeding: Delivering liquid nutrition to patients unable to eat orally.
- Medication Administration: Providing a route for medications in patients with difficulty swallowing.
- Suctioning: Removing stomach contents, as detailed below.
NGT Suctioning Explained
NGT suctioning is specifically used to remove fluids, gas, and other contents from the stomach. This is achieved by applying gentle suction to the tube connected to a collection device. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
- Insertion: The nasogastric tube is carefully inserted into the patient's nostril, through the esophagus, and into the stomach by a trained healthcare professional.
- Connection: The external end of the NGT is connected to a suction device.
- Suctioning: Gentle, controlled suction is applied. This draws the contents from the stomach into the collection device.
- Monitoring: Healthcare professionals regularly monitor the patient and the amount and type of fluid suctioned.
Why Is NGT Suctioning Necessary?
NGT suctioning is done for various medical reasons:
- Relieving Pressure: When the stomach becomes distended due to fluid or gas buildup, NGT suctioning reduces pressure, alleviating discomfort and preventing complications.
- Removing Poisons: In cases of poisoning or drug overdose, NGT suctioning can help remove toxic substances from the stomach. As stated in the reference, NGTs can "suction out stomach contents to relieve pressure or remove poisons."
- Preoperative Preparation: Before some surgeries, the stomach needs to be emptied to reduce the risk of aspiration during anesthesia.
- Treatment of Ileus: Post-operatively or due to other medical conditions, the bowel may stop or slow down its normal contraction and emptying. In such cases, a NGT can be used to aspirate stomach contents and prevent vomitting.
Key Considerations
- Medical Supervision: NGT suctioning is always performed under the guidance and supervision of trained healthcare providers.
- Patient Monitoring: The patient's condition and response to the procedure must be continuously assessed.
- Complications: Potential complications include discomfort, nasal irritation, and, rarely, aspiration of stomach contents into the lungs.
Summary Table
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| What is it? | Using a nasogastric tube to remove stomach contents. |
| Purpose | Relieve pressure, remove poisons, pre-op preparation, treat ileus. |
| Procedure | Insert tube, connect to suction, monitor, and collect fluids. |
| Supervision | Always under the care of healthcare professionals. |
