Learning outcomes
By the end of this section, you should know how to:
▪ prepare and support the patient for this nursing practice
▪ collect and prepare the equipment
▪ pass a nasogastric tube
▪ aspirate the stomach contents.
Background knowledge required
Revision of the anatomy and physiology of the nose, pharynx, oesophagus and stomach.
Indications and rationale for gastric aspiration
Gastric aspiration is used to keep the stomach empty of contents by passing a tube into it and applying some form of suction. It is usually performed in the following circumstances:
▪ obstruction of the bowel
▪ paralytic ileus
▪ preoperatively for gastric or some abdominal surgery, e.g. perforated gastric ulcer or oesophageal and gastric varices
▪ postoperatively, e.g. partial gastrectomy or cholecystectomy.
Equipment1. Trolley
2. Disposable gloves
3. Protective covering for the patient
4. Denture dish
5. Equipment for cleaning nostrils, if required
6. Nasogastric tube
7. Lubricant, e.g. iced water or water-soluble jelly
8. Water to sip
9. Catheter-tipped syringe
10. Litmus paper
11. pH indicator strips or paper
12. Receiver for aspirated fluid
13. Receptacle for soiled disposable items
14. Hypoallergenic tape
15. Stethoscope
16. Suction pump
17. Drainage bag or spigot
18. Fluid balance chart.
The size of tube selected depends on the size and age of the patient, the most commonly used sizes for the average adult are 14 and 16FG.
▪ collect and prepare the equipment and ensure it is in good working order to promote safety and efficiency of practice
▪ wash your hands to promote infection control (Jeanes 2005)
▪ explain the nursing practice to the patient and ensure that they understand to gain consent and co-operation. Patients should be encouraged to be active partners in their care
▪ explain to the patient that there is a slight risk of a nose bleed during the procedure (Rushing 2005)
▪ ensure the patient’s privacy to maintain dignity and a sense of self
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