Checking air-bolus on NGT post Esophagectomy.

[sockov, ADN, ASN, BSN, CNA, LVN]

Hello

After an Esophagectomy with gastric pullup, do you routinely check NGT placement with air-bolus? I always thought you DON'T check placement since there is a risk to blow open the incision at the anastamosis site.

I cannot get a concrete answer through some doctors who I work with.

Anywhere where I can see any information on this topic or references?

Thank You for your response.

[sunnycalifRN]

In the ICU I work in, the NGT is placed in the OR and sutured in place. Additionally, we usually have specific orders not to manipulate the tube and what suction settings to use, etc. So. bottom line, you need to speak to the surgeon who did the surgery, but I wouldn't do an air bolus, on arrival from the OR. Now, POD#5, depends on surgery orders.

[sockov, ADN, ASN, BSN, CNA, LVN]

Thank You for your reply.

[DixieJeanne]

Haven't cared for one of these in a while, but I remember we had strict orders for NG care/boluses/etc. I would definitely go on a Dr-by-Dr basis, ya know? Sorry there are no concrete answers.

[CABGx4, ASN, BSN, MSN, CRNA]

our surgeons place pharyngostomy tubes which we are NOT allowed to manipulate for maybe 4-5 day. then maybe we can push meds through because we are not allowed to use the J-tubes (clog too easily)