Important labs to monitor for those with an NG tube

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I know K, and h/h for any bleeding but is there anything else? This is just for decompression not feeding. Thanks

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Specializes in Critical Care.

Not just K, all of the electrolytes.

You need to monitor for signs and symptoms of metabolic alkalosis, which also means respiratory assessment as that is the body's compensation mechanism.Having an NG to suction can strip a significant amount of the body's hydrogen ions just as excessive vomiting can.

Watching all of the electrolytes closely can tip you off to this problem in advance, as changes in the anion gap may be discovered.

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