Before inserting a small-bore nasogastric tube for enteral nutrition,

Before inserting a small-bore nasogastric tube for enteral nutrition, the nurse correctly tells the client:

1. “The tube will feel uncomfortable and may make you gag at times when I am in-serting it”
2. “We will mark this tube from the end of your nose to your umbilicus to obtain the right length for insertion”
3. “Please hold your breath when I insert this small tube through your nose down into your stomach”
4. “Please tilt your head back after the tube passes the nasopharynx.”

ANSWER

ANS: 1
The procedure should be explained to the client, including how to communicate during intuba-tion by raising his or her index finger to indicate gagging or discomfort. This will help reduce anxiety and help the client to assist in insertion. The length of the tube to be inserted is measured from the tip of the nose, to the earlobe, to the xiphoid process of the sternum. The client should be told to mouth-breathe and swallow during the procedure. The client should not hold his or her breath. The nurse should instruct the client to flex the head toward the chest after the tube has passed the nasopharynx.