Inserting a small amount of air through a nasogastric (NG) tube allows healthcare providers to confirm proper placement of the tube in the stomach. This technique is often referred to as "aerosolization" or "air insufflation."
Here are the reasons why air is introduced:
-
Placement Confirmation: When air is injected into the NG tube, it creates a characteristic sound if the tube is correctly positioned in the stomach. Healthcare providers often listen with a stethoscope placed on the upper abdomen. If the tube is in the right place, the air bubbles created will produce a "whooshing" sound.
-
Identifying Misplacement: If the air does not produce this sound or if the sound is absent, it can indicate that the tube is not in the stomach (e.g., might be in the esophagus or the lungs), prompting immediate reassessment.
-
Assessing Tube Patency: Introducing air can also help assess whether the tube is patent (open) and allows for proper drainage or feeding.
-
Monitoring Gastric Contents: In some cases, introducing air can help in evaluating the contents of the stomach.
It's important to note that practices may vary, and some organizations may have protocols against the use of air due to concerns about potential complications, especially with certain patient populations or if the accurate placement is still in question. Always refer to current clinical guidelines and protocols when working with NG tubes.