Prior to NG tube insertion

[cracklingkraken, ASN, RN]

Prior to NG tube insertion, we are supposed to do abdominal assessments. Are you just auscultating to make sure that bowel sounds are present? Or is there something more we're supposed to be assessing? Such as rigidity or firmness?

[RN403, BSN, RN]

What does your book/notes say?

Usually, you get a good GI assessment: bowel sounds present? is abdomen soft/firm, tender/non-tender, distended-non? Then you also assess for patency of nares prior to NG tube insertion.

[Esme12, ASN, BSN, RN]

Think about it...logically....you are inserting a NGT for a possible obstruction and abdominal distention, for example, how would you be able to evaluate the NGT effectiveness post insertion if you don't have an assessment to compare it with fro the beginning.

[cracklingkraken, ASN, RN]

Think about it...logically....you are inserting a NGT for a possible obstruction and abdominal distention, for example, how would you be able to evaluate the NGT effectiveness post insertion if you don't have an assessment to compare it with fro the beginning.

Okay, that makes way more sense than the way my textbook explained it. Thanks, Esme! Always appreciate your insight.