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Securing nasogastric tubes in non-cooperative patients
D della Faille1, B Schmelzer, T Hartoko
1Department of E.N.T. Middelheim Hospital, Antwerp, Belgium.
Acta Oto-Rhino-Laryngologica Belgica
|January 1, 1996
Summary
The Nasal Septal Loop (NSL) is an effective method for securing nasogastric tubes (NGT) in agitated patients, reducing accidental removal for short-term feeding or decompression.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Gastroenterology
- Patient Care
Background:
- Nasogastric tubes (NGT) are crucial for enteral nutrition and gastric decompression.
- Accidental NGT extubation is a common issue, especially in non-cooperative or agitated patients.
- Securing NGTs effectively is vital to ensure uninterrupted treatment and prevent complications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the Nasal Septal Loop (NSL) technique for securing NGTs.
- To assess the duration of NGT retention using the NSL method.
- To identify potential complications associated with the NSL technique.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study was conducted involving 124 patients requiring NGT.
- The NSL technique involved attaching NGTs to a polyurethane tube looped around the nasal septum.
- Data on NGT retention duration and complications were systematically collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- The NSL device remained in place for an average of 21.2 days, while the NGT averaged 13.8 days.
- Complications were infrequent, with NGT replacement needed after self-extubation in 16.9% of cases.
- Repeat extubations (more than twice) occurred in only 2.4% of the patients.
Conclusions:
- The NSL technique is a simple and effective method for securing NGTs in challenging patient populations.
- It is suitable for short-term enteral nutrition or gastric decompression, minimizing accidental extubations.
- The NSL offers a valuable solution for improving NGT management and patient care.