Digestive catheterization of the stomach or intestine is performed for the following reasons:
-To empty or decompress, removing gas or intestinal or stomach contents by means of suction (especially in cases of intestinal obstruction).
-To diagnose certain diseases by analyzing the aspirated material.
-To wash the stomach after ingestion of toxic substances or to obtain a contraction of the blood vessels of the stomach in case of gastrointestinal bleeding.
-For the introduction of enteral feeding if the affected person cannot take food by mouth.
In general, the probe is usually inserted through the nose, especially in adults, but sometimes it can be inserted through the mouth, the route by which it is usually inserted in children.
The tubes are usually known as nasogastric (those that reach the stomach) and nasointestinal or nasoenteric (those that go from the nose to the intestine). The so-called gastrostomy tube is inserted directly into the stomach through an opening made in the abdominal wall, while an enterostomy tube is one that is inserted directly into the intestine, and the esophagostomy tube is one that is inserted into the esophagus.
Nursing Considerations:
-The level of drainage liquid in the container must be marked at the beginning of each aspiration.
-In gastric aspiration, serious electrolyte disorders can occur if fluids are not correctly administered intravenously for replacement. Ensure that EV infusion is maintained at the indicated rate.