Verification of Blindly Inserted Nasogastric Feeding Tubes: A Review of Different Test Methods

K

Abstract

Placement of nasogastric feeding tubes is common practice in ICU’s and hospital wards. Although the technique seems simple there is certainly a risk for morbidity and mortality due to misplacement. Confirmation of correct tip position seems mandatory but whatever test method used, it doesn’t guarantee complete safety. More, some of them should be abounded. This article reviews and comments on currently used test methods for nasogastric tip position confirmation.