Comparison of Three Methods for NG Tube Placement in Intubated Patients in the Emergency Department

Abstract

Introduction: Tubular feeding is used, in patients who cannot take food through their mouths, but their digestive system is able to digest food. This method is safe and affordable for the patient and results in maintaining the function of the digestive system and reducing the risk of infection and sepsis. Objective: The purpose of this study was to compare the three methods of the NG tube placement in intubated patients in the emergency department. Methods: This study is a randomized, prospective clinical trial conducted between 2016 and 2018. 75 patients who had been referred to the emergency department were enrolled in the study and divided into three groups, to have their NG tube insertion using either the conventional method (Group C), or using brake cable (Group B) or applying Rusch intubation stylet (Group S) for highwayman's hitch or draw hitch. Results: The mean duration of NG tube insertion was not significant between three groups (p=0.459), but the mean duration of NG tube insertion in group B was 18.43 +/- 2.71 seconds and less than the other groups. NG tube insertion by first attempt in the group B was associated with the highest success rate. There was no significant difference, however, in the success rate in NG tube insertion on first and second attempts (p=0.376, p=0.353). Conclusions: The use of brake cable as a guide wire during insertion of a nasogastric tube increases the success rate on first attempt. No meaningful difference, however, was noted in the overall success rate in NG tube insertion on first and second attempts.