Page 2515 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

FIG. 69-8 Comparison of design and function of selected gastrointestinal tubes.

Box 69-6

Nasogastric Tubes: Intubation Procedures

1. Follow agency procedures.
2. Explain the procedure and its potential discomfort to the client.
3. Position the client in a high-Fowler’s position with pillows behind the
shoulders.
4. Determine which nostril is more patent.
5. Measure the length of the tube from the bridge of the nose to the earlobe to the
xiphoid process and indicate this length with a piece of tape on the tube
(remember the abbreviation NEX, which stands for nose, earlobe, and xiphoid
process).
6. If the client is conscious and alert, have him or her swallow or drink water
(follow agency procedure).

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