Post op NGT drainage? HELP!

[thefabulousmrst]

Hello everyone,

I am having a hard time with this question in my study guide and I cannot find the answer anywhere- please help! THANKS!

Discuss monitoring NG drainage post op?

[Daytonite, BSN, RN]

ng output is considered part of the fluid output along with urine measurements, so at the end of a shift the ng fluid output is noted (color, consistency), measured and recorded. on some units, the same amount of ng output is replaced with an identical amount of iv fluid over a 4-hour period or so to keep fluid levels in balance.

(page 335, nurse's 5-minute clinical consult: procedures)

• measure drainage and update intake and output record every 8 hours
  
• be alert for electrolyte imbalances with excessive gastric output
  
• inspect gastric drainage and note its color, consistency, odor and amount
  
• immediately report any drainage with coffee-bean color
  
• if you suspect the drainage contains blood, perform an occult blood screening

here's more information on ng tubes:

• http://www.icufaqs.org/ngtubes.doc - n/g tubes for beginners