The nurse has just finished inserting a nasogastric (NG) tube in a client who has difficulty swallowing. The best measure to test for placement of the tube is
A) asking the client to speak.
B) aspirating gastric contents.
C) inspecting the posterior pharynx for correct placement.
D) placing the end of the tube in a glass of water.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

To verify tube placement, the nurse can aspirate gastric contents for short tubes, like a nasogastric tube. Other reliable methods for determining placement include measuring the pH of the gastric contents and checking placement with an x-ray if the tube has radiographic markings.

The Nurse Has Just Finished Inserting a Nasogastric (NG) Tube