Management of nasogastric feeding for daily cleaning and external positioning checks: A case study

A patient was refed using a nasogastric (NG) tube with the bridle for several weeks. New insertion of the tube and inability to communicate during the procedure led to uncomfortable external positioning and nasal pain, with an increased risk of ulceration. The patient began to experience excessive nasal secretions, vomiting, and sickness during her feeds. She reported a foul smell. Upon repositioning and cleaning the nasal area, it was discovered that the odor was from yellow-green nasal secretions built up within the nose. The nausea was due to these flowing from the back of the nasal cavity down the throat. We recommend daily checking of NG tube sites, especially when NG bridles are also fitted, for redness, inflammation, or other signs of infection. The external positioning of the NG tube is also key and should be regularly changed to reduce infection and promote comfort.