Blue port on NG tube leaking

[Surg-OncRN]

Hi, I did a search for the answer to this question but did not come up with an exact answer We had an issue the other day where our surgeons are upset that we are blocking the blue port on the NG tube. I know that this can not be blocked when hooked up to suction. They are saying we can not put anything on the end of it and I disagree. I use a 60cc syringe and take the plunger off and then fill the syringe with gauze. I believe this allows the tube the ability to exchange air but not leak all over the bed. What are your thoughts? Does anyone know how I can prove this works or that it does not work? I believe there is a better way to do this than having a lot of messed up beds. The only thing I know to do is use a pad under the port but that does not work well if the patient is moving around a lot. Are there any NG tubes or one way valves you are using that has made a great improvement on this flaw? Let me know your thoughts. Any suggestions on how to improve this at my facility.

[sapphire18]

My unit uses a one-way plug that allows air out (I think?) but not stomach contents...it has really tiny holes in it.

The SICU, however, doesn't use them for the same reason you don't: the surgeons don't want them to; most of the SICU nurses tie the blue port in a knot (not much difference but you don't want tube feeds or other gastric contents all over your patient constantly).

[classicdame, MSN, EdD]

this would be a great project for your purchaser to investigate to see if another product is out there

[morte, LPN, LVN]

If it is kept at an appropriate level, it can't leak....