What it means
Any device can become dislodged: an IV catheter, a nasogastric or feeding tube, a tracheostomy or breathing tube, a chest tube or a drain. It happens with pulling, movement, poor securing or a confused client. Depending on the device, it can cause bleeding, air entering the chest or blood vessels, loss of the airway, or feeding going into the lungs.
For the nurse
Secure tubes well, check their position and markings each shift, and keep tubing out of the client's reach when needed. Know what to do for each device if it comes out, such as covering a chest tube site, and report it at once.
At a glance
| Also written | dislodgment, dislodged |
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Related terms
nasogastric tube
A thin, flexible tube passed through the nose and down the esophagus into the stomach.
catheter
A thin, flexible tube put into the body to drain fluid out or to put fluid or drugs in.