NG tubes

[janleb]

I am a first year nursing student. I had a pt that had to be intubated before surgery. I just watched the procedure and held her hand. She was 75 years old and this was so painful for her. MY question is, could they have done this after anesthesia prior to the actual surgery? If not, what could have been done to lessen the pain for her? Thanks for the help

[traumaRUs, MSN, APRN]

I'm not sure what you're referring to..nasogastric tube or endotracheal intubation. NG tube placement is usually easily accomplished with enough lubricant and clear instructions to the pt along with a glass of water for the pt to sip at while advancing the tube. And yes, it could have probably been done after the anesthesia was induced. Suggest it! With endotracheal intubation there is usually no reason not to use rapid sequence intubation which results in a very relaxed and easy intubation. Good luck in school.