Intended for healthcare professionals
RCNi interactive learning

CPD modules

Ensuring patient safety when inserting and using a nasogastric feeding tube

Author: Maxine Tinker

Duration: 2 hours Last updated: 2021 Quality Assurance: Peer-reviewed Level: Qualified nurses Language: English

Course description

This module aims to provide the reader with an understanding of the safe and effective nursing care of adult patients who require nasogastric tubes for feeding. The terms feeding and feed will be used to represent the introduction of any feed, liquid or medication through a nasogastric tube.

Don't forget that you do not have to complete our two-hour learning modules all in one go. Tailor your learning to fit into your busy schedule by undertaking one or two sections at a time. You can stop and save your learning at any point and pick up where you left off when you return.


Learning aims and intended outcomes

  • Identify the indications and contraindications to the bedside insertion of a nasogastric tube for feeding
  • Outline the steps involved in the safe insertion of a nasogastric tube and confirmation of tube position
  • Explain the importance of clear and accurate documentation in the prevention and detection of nasogastric feeding tube complications
  • Develop a plan of nursing care to prevent nasogastric tube-related complications
  • Discuss the support that a patient discharged into the community with a nasogastric feeding tube may need

Syllabus

  • Introduction
  • Pre-insertion assessment and patient discussion
  • Tube selection
  • Safe insertion
  • Confirming correct tube position
  • Confirmation of tube position during use
  • Documentation
  • Administering food and fluids safely
  • Nasogastric tube use in the community
  • Nasogastric tube removal
  • Conclusions

Author

MT
Maxine Tinker
Nutrition nurse specialist, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust.

Disclaimer

Please note that information provided by RCNi Learning is not sufficient to ensure competence in the skill. Assessment of competence should take place in line with local practice. Practice should always align with local protocols and procedures, latest guidelines and any regulatory code. All modules should currently be viewed together with available national and local Covid-19 guidelines. For advice, go to www.rcn.org.uk/covid-19

Syllabus

  • Introduction
  • Pre-insertion assessment and patient discussion
  • Tube selection
  • Safe insertion
  • Confirming correct tube position
  • Confirmation of tube position during use
  • Documentation
  • Administering food and fluids safely
  • Nasogastric tube use in the community
  • Nasogastric tube removal
  • Conclusions

Why use RCNi Learning

Document your learning

Save certificates to your RCNi Revalidation Portfolio to use for CPD and revalidation

Engaging learning

Interactive quizzes, imagery and videos make learning an enjoyable experience

RCNi quality assurance

Double-blind peer-reviewed and updated in-line with changing practice

Learn on demand

Bitesize learning or an in-depth course that can be paused and resumed at any time.

RCNi plus logo

RCNi Learning is available to individuals with an RCNi Plus subscription

Save over 50% on your first 3 months and gain access to:

Certificate

Learning Modules

Earn CPD with RCNi Learning, giving you access to over 170 CPD modules

RCNi Journals

Unlimited access to all 10 RCNi journals and their archives

RCNi Interative learning

Revalidation Portfolio

Quick, easy access to build, track and save evidance for revalidation

RCNi interactive learning

CPD Quizzes

Over 400 CPD Quizzes taken from evidence-based and peer-reviewed clinical articles

Module details

RCNi Plus Dashboard

Customise your dashboard with topics most relevant to you

For organisations

RCNi provides learning resources to organisations who want to support their staff in delivering high quality, person-centred care by offering CPD and a revalidation portfolio

RCNi quality assurance

All modules undergo a double-blind peer-review process and are updated in-line with changing practice and current guidelines

Download RCNi Learning from the app store today

RCNi CPD logo

Use RCNi Learning to earn CPD hours for revalidation and stay up-to-date with the latest clinical guidance