What is a nasogastric tube?

A nasogastric tube is a long, flexible plastic tube inserted into a person's nose and threaded into the stomach to deliver fluid containing nutrients directly into the stomach (tube feeding). A nasogastric tube may also be used to suction excess gastric fluids out of the stomach or deliver medicines to a person who temporarily cannot swallow.

A quick way to get things in or out of the stomach is to insert a nasogastric (NG) tube. It is used to relieve pressure caused by fluid behind an obstruction or to remove blood or stomach acid. A soft, clear tube is placed through one nostril and travels down your throat and into your stomach. Emergency room staff will estimate the distance from your nostril to your stomach first.