Which professionals are allowed to replace a nasogastric tube (NGT)?

Which professionals are allowed to replace a nasogastric tube (NGT)?

• A. Physician
• B. Physician Assistant
• C. Appropriately trained nurse
• D. Medical resident

Answer: (C)

Scope of practice and protocol-based delegation determine who can replace a nasogastric tube. When a tube needs to be replaced or reinserted, an appropriately trained nurse may perform this procedure under institutional standing orders or physician orders. This reflects nursing scope for routine enteral access care, provided the nurse is trained in tube handling, securing, and placement verification. Verification after reinsertion is essential for safety, typically with radiographs or pH testing per protocol to confirm correct gastric placement. While physicians, physician assistants, and medical residents can perform the procedure when policy or clinical judgment dictates, the question highlights that trained nurses are authorized to handle this task under proper guidelines.

Scope of practice and protocol-based delegation determine who can replace a nasogastric tube. When a tube needs to be replaced or reinserted, an appropriately trained nurse may perform this procedure under institutional standing orders or physician orders. This reflects nursing scope for routine enteral access care, provided the nurse is trained in tube handling, securing, and placement verification. Verification after reinsertion is essential for safety, typically with radiographs or pH testing per protocol to confirm correct gastric placement. While physicians, physician assistants, and medical residents can perform the procedure when policy or clinical judgment dictates, the question highlights that trained nurses are authorized to handle this task under proper guidelines.