Which of the following methods is the best method for
determining nasogastric tube placement in the stomach?
a) X-ray
Radiologic identification of tube placement in the stomach is most
reliable.
b) Observation of gastric aspirate
Gastric fluid may be grassy green, brown, clear, or odorless while an
aspirate from the lungs may be off-white or tan. Hence, checking
aspirate is not the best method of determining nasogastric tube
placement in the stomach.
c) Testing of pH of gastric aspirate
Gastric pH values are typically lower or more acidic than that of the
intestinal or respiractory tract, but not always.
d) Placement of external end of tube under water
Placement of external end of tube under water and watching for air
bubbles is not a reliable method for determining nasogastric tube
placement in the stomach.
determining nasogastric tube placement in the stomach?
a) X-ray
Radiologic identification of tube placement in the stomach is most
reliable.
b) Observation of gastric aspirate
Gastric fluid may be grassy green, brown, clear, or odorless while an
aspirate from the lungs may be off-white or tan. Hence, checking
aspirate is not the best method of determining nasogastric tube
placement in the stomach.
c) Testing of pH of gastric aspirate
Gastric pH values are typically lower or more acidic than that of the
intestinal or respiractory tract, but not always.
d) Placement of external end of tube under water
Placement of external end of tube under water and watching for air
bubbles is not a reliable method for determining nasogastric tube
placement in the stomach.