Final answer:
To confirm the placement of an NG tube, a nurse can use aspiration and pH testing, auscultation of air injection, or a confirmatory chest X-ray. Verification of correct placement is crucial for patient safety during medical procedures.
Step-by-step explanation:
Confirmation of nasogastric (NG) tube placement by a nurse is a critical procedure to ensure that the tube is positioned correctly in the stomach or duodenum for it to function properly. There are several methods to confirm placement:
Aspiration of stomach contents and pH testing: The acidic nature of gastric contents can help confirm proper placement in the stomach.
Auscultation: A nurse may inject air into the NG tube while listening over the stomach with a stethoscope to confirm placement.
Chest X-ray: This is the most definitive method to confirm the NG tube is not in the lungs or esophagus.
Additionally, during the surgical process, it is important to verify several factors before proceeding, such as ensuring prophylactic antibiotics have been administered if indicated, necessary imaging results are displayed, and confirming team members and procedures with the nursing staff. Proper verification steps help mitigate risks and improve the safety of patient care.