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How accurate are X-rays to check NG tube positioning?
Hazel Rollins1, Jacqui Arnold-Jellis, Andrew Taylor
1Luton and Dunstable University Hospital.
Nursing Times
|November 22, 2012
Summary
A review of radiology reports found most nasogastric tubes were correctly placed in the stomach. However, some were misplaced in the esophagus or airways, necessitating removal, highlighting the need for accurate nasogastric tube placement verification.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Patient Safety
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Nasogastric tube (NGT) placement is critical for patient safety.
- Radiography is commonly used to confirm NGT position.
- Effectiveness of radiographic confirmation requires evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To audit the accuracy and completeness of radiology reports for nasogastric tube placement.
- To assess the compliance of NGT positioning with National Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) guidelines.
Main Methods:
- Audit of radiology information system data from January 2010 to May 2011.
- Inclusion of reports containing the term "nasogastric".
- Categorization of tube position descriptions and analysis of tip location.
Main Results:
- No reports fully complied with NPSA (2011) guidelines.
- 70% of NGTs were correctly positioned in the stomach.
- 21% were in the esophagus, and 4% were in the airways, requiring intervention.
Conclusions:
- Radiology reports for NGT placement often lack complete information.
- While most NGTs are stomach-compliant, significant proportions are misplaced.
- Improved reporting and verification are needed to enhance patient safety.
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