How to insert a nasogastric tube and check gastric position at the bedside

Rationale and key points A nasogastric tube (NG tube) can be used to aspirate stomach contents or to administer feed, medication or fluid into the stomach. ▶ A blind technique is used to insert the NG tube through the nostril, along the nasopharynx, through the oesophagus and into the stomach. ▶ It is important for nurses to be able to recognise problems that may arise when inserting a NG tube blindly, and to know what actions to take if it is suspected that the distal tip of the NG tube is not sitting in the stomach, or they are unable to identify its location. ▶ Misplacement and subsequent use of a NG tube to administer feed, medication or fluid is a 'never event' ( NHS England Patient Safety Domain 2015 ). Reflective activity Clinical skills articles can help update your practice and ensure it remains evidence based. Apply this article to your practice. Reflect on and write a short account of: 1. How you think this article will change your practice. 2. How you could use this resource to educate your colleagues. Subscribers can update their reflective accounts at rcni.com/portfolio.