Gastro-Intestinal Decompression –
Nursing Procedure
Gastric and intestinal decompression is the removal of fluid, flatus and other contents from the stomach and intestines through a tube passed into the stomach or intestines.
Purpose:
1. To drain fluid or gas that accumulates above the mechanical obstruction in the stomach or intestines.
2. To prevent or treat post-operative vomiting and distension caused by the lessening of peristalsis (paralytic ileus) following anaesthesia and manipulation of viscera during surgery, or by obstruction in the gut (intestinal obstruction).
3. To deflate the stomach or intestine in case of dilatation and bring them back to their normal functioning.
4. To remove the contents of the stomach and intestines to prepare for general anaesthesia and surgery.
5. To aid in the healing of the wound in case of surgery of stomach and intestine.
6. To prevent or check haemorrhage in case of oesophageal varices.
Types of Tubes Used:
Short Tubes
The short tubes, commonly called as naso-gastric tubes (e.g. Levine) are used to achieve the decompression of the stomach and duodenum.
Long Tubes
The long tubes (6 to 10 feet long) are used to decompress the small intestine and bowels. The common among them are:
A – Abbot Miller Tube: it is a double lumen tube; one lumen is used to inflate the balloon at the end of the tube and the other is used for the aspiration of the contents.
B – Harris Tube: this is a single lumen, mercury weighted tube of about 6 feet length. The tube has a metal tip followed by the mercury weighted bag.
C – Canter Tube: this is a 10 feet long tube. It has a mercury filled bag at the extreme end.
Sangstaken-Blackmore Tube
This is used to control bleeding from the oesophageal or gastric varies in clients with portal hypertension. It is a naso-gastric tube with separate oesophageal and gastric balloons and a separate lumen for gastric aspiration.
Method of Insertion
Naso-gastric tubes are usually inserted through the nostrils. (for method of insertion, the same method used in Tube Feeding). In case of intestinal tubes the addition of balloon on the tip of the tube makes its insertion through the nose more difficult for the client. Ordinarily, the tube can be inserted up to the stomach. Its passage along the remainder of the G.I. tract is dependent upon gravity and peristalsis. The weight of the mercury in the balloon helps to propel the tube through the intestines. Position of the patient and his activity is also aid in its passage. These are rarely used now-a-days.
GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS
1. Explain the procedure to the client to win his confidence and co-operation. Tell how he can co-operate in the procedure. Acceptance of the procedure by the client facilitates passage of the tube to the desired level and there is less possibility that he will pull it out.
2. The tubing should be lubricated fairly to facilitate its passage to prevent friction and trauma.
3. When the long intestinal tubes attached with balloon are used follow the directions given along with them e.g. mercury is introduced into some tubes before the tube is introduced, while in others, the mercury is introduced into the tube after it is passed.
4. The period for which the tube remains in the stomach or intestine depend upon:
a. The purpose of intubation.
b. The psychologic effect of the body.
c. The physiologic effect of intubation on electrolyte balance.
This may be left in, until normal peristalsis returns or until the obstruction is relieved.
5. The signs of return of peristalsis, such as the passing of gas from rectum or a spontaneous bowel movement should be reported to the surgeon as these usually indicate that the tube is no longer needed.
6. Handling of the intestinal tube should be done by the surgeon especially when there is a suture line that can be injured during intubation.
7. The tube should be secured in such a way that it does not cause any irritation in the nostrils.
8. Frequent mouth washes and application of an emollient to the lips are necessary to prevent drying of the mucus membranes.
9. Adequate fluid intake by means of I.V. route should be ensured to prevent dehydration. Intake and output chart is maintained.
10. The tubing that connects the naso-gastric tubes to the drainage bottle should be neither too long nor too short. It should give enough freedom to the client for movement in bed and at the same time, it should not form any kinks.
11. The gastro-intestinal tubes are irrigated with a small amount of normal saline frequently to keep the tube patent by preventing the plugging of the tube with mucus and blood clots. After the fluid is instilled, it should be aspirated immediately. The fluid is introduced and aspirated should be recorded accurately. If the irrigating fluid is not measured accurately, the amount of the total gastric drainage will be inaccurate.
12. The intestinal tubes should not be secured to the face until it has reached the desired point in the intestine, since taping or the tube will prevent from advancing with peristalsis.
13. The pull of the mercury at the end of the tube may move bowel along with the tube causing telescoping of the bowel which is a serious complication. The tube should be monitored by X-ray examination to assure that coiling of the tube or telescoping of the bowel has not occurred.
14. The intestinal tubes are always removed gradually. While withdrawing it, some resistance may be felt because of the pull against peristalsis. When the tip of the tube reaches the posterior pharynx, it may be brought out through the mouth so that balloon and the mercury can be removed. The tube is then pulled through the nose. The client is given a mouth care immediately. To relieve the sore throat caused by the tube, gargles and lozenges are given to the client for several days.