Uses and hazards of nasogastric tube in gastrointestinal diseases: An update for clinicians

Since its first description by Hunter,[1] the nasogastric (NG) tube has become a frequently used method of alleviating gastrointestinal symptoms. NG tubes are frequently used in the clinical setting for the management of patients who require decompression of the gastrointestinal tract, diagnosis and assessment, nutritional support and medication administration.[1,2] The insertion and management of NG tubes are procedures increasingly undertaken by nurses, interns, House officers, Medical Practitioners although, there is a wide variation in practice.[1-3] The use of NG tubes may be associated with complications.[2] Attention to tube size selection, assessment of tube position and the method of securing NG tubes are important components of care of NG tube to minimize the risks of NG tube-related complications and provide for optimal patient safety and comfort. Therefore the aim of this update is to highlight the uses, care and hazards of NG tube.