Word parts
What it means
A tube put in through a nostril and down into the stomach. It is used to remove stomach contents and air (suction), for example after surgery or for a bowel blockage, or to give liquid feeding and medicines to a client who cannot swallow safely. The tube is measured before it goes in, and its position is checked before anything is put through it.
For the nurse
Before each use, check that the tube is still in the stomach as policy directs: an X-ray confirms first placement, then check the mark at the nostril and the pH of what comes back. Keep the head of the bed raised at least 30 degrees during feeding, give mouth and nose care, and record what drains out.
In a chart
"NG tube to low intermittent suction, 150 mL green drainage this shift; mark at nare unchanged."
At a glance
| Abbreviations | NG tube, NGT |
|---|---|
| Spanish | sonda nasogástrica |
| Also written | NG tube, NG tubes, NGT, nasogastric tubes |
Related terms
aspiration
Breathing food, liquid, saliva or stomach contents into the airway and lungs; also, drawing fluid out with suction or a needle.
esophagus
The muscular tube that carries food and liquid from the throat to the stomach.
nas/o
A word part that means nose.
gastr/o
A word part that means stomach.