Care of a Nasogastric Tube

Clinical

Course No. 1191

£ (Please contact us for a group quote)

Face to Face - 6 hour(s)

Certificate of Attendance

Available Funding:

Self Funded

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Course Outline

Our “Care of a Nasogastric Tube” course gives healthcare staff the knowledge, skills, and confidence to care for individuals with an NG tube safely and effectively.

Led by one of our experienced Clinical Trainers, the course begins with an overview of relevant anatomy, physiology, and the indications and contraindications for NG tube use. You’ll learn step-by-step insertion techniques (if this is applicable to your role), as well as safe methods for confirming placement using gastric aspirate.

Practical training includes administering medication, feeds, and water boluses, alongside managing gastric emptying where appropriate. You’ll also gain the skills to troubleshoot blockages, recognise potential complications, and take prompt action when required. Essential documentation practices are covered throughout to ensure professional and legal standards are met.

By the end of the course, you’ll feel confident delivering safe, high-quality care to individuals with NG tubes while maintaining their comfort and dignity.

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Anatomy and Physiology relevant to the NG Tube
Indications and Contraindications
Insertion of a Nasogastric tube* (only if staff are expected to do this in the workplace)
Checking the position of an NG tube via Gastric Aspirate
Emptying gastric contents via an NG tube* (if applicable to the tasks staff are expected to do in the workplace)
Administration of medication via an NG tube
Administration of feed via an NG tube
Administration of water bolus via an NG tube
Dealing with a blocked NG tube
Complications
Documentation required
How to communicate with individuals you support who have an NG tube in place
When to seek further medical advice

Module 1: Introduction to NG Tubes

Overview of NG tubes: What they are and their purposes.

Anatomy and physiology relevant to NG tube use.

Indications and contraindications for NG tube placement.

Module 2: NG Tube Insertion and Position Checking

Step-by-step process for safely inserting an NG tube.

Best practices for checking tube position using gastric aspirate.

Ensuring patient safety during and after insertion.

Module 3: Administration Tasks

Administering medications through an NG tube.

Providing feeds and water boluses.

Techniques for safely emptying gastric contents when required.

Module 4: Troubleshooting and Safety Management

Recognising and managing blockages.

Identifying complications that may require further intervention.

Knowing when and how to escalate concerns.

Module 5: Communication and Documentation

Effective communication with individuals with an NG tube.

Recording care accurately and maintaining compliance with documentation standards.

Module 6: Practical Application and Scenario Practice

Hands-on practice under the supervision of a Clinical Trainer.

Working through real-life scenarios to reinforce learning.

Who is this course for?
This course is ideal for healthcare staff who support individuals with an NG tube, including nurses and support staff in residential & care home settings.

What complications will the course cover?
The course teaches you how to recognise common complications, such as blockages or improper placement, and when to seek medical advice.

Is the training hands-on?
Yes, the course includes practical application however you will need to complete a period of supervised practice at your workplace (often called Competencies) with a designated, suitably trained member of staff after attending the course, to build your confidence and skills.

Will I receive a certificate?
Yes, you will receive a certificate of attendance.