What is the primary purpose of a nasogastric (NG) tube?

The primary purpose of a nasogastric (NG) tube is to remove stomach contents or provide nutrition. This tube is inserted through the nose, down the esophagus, and into the stomach, allowing for various medical interventions. It can be used to decompress the stomach by removing excess gastric secretions or air, which can be particularly beneficial in cases of bowel obstruction, postoperative care, or other gastrointestinal conditions. Additionally, the NG tube serves as a means of providing enteral nutrition directly into the stomach for patients who are unable to eat by mouth due to illness, surgery, or injury. Given its functions, the NG tube is an essential tool in managing a patient’s nutritional and gastric needs in a clinical setting.