a. Introduction. 

(1) Irrigate only on order by the physician. (The type and amount of solution and frequency of irrigation must be specified.)

(2) Measure amounts of irrigating solution accurately and record on the I&O (Intake and Output) worksheet as specified by local Department of Nursing SOP.

(3) Do not use the syringe to aspirate back the irrigating solution unless ordered to do so; ordinarily, all solution used to irrigate and clear the tube will be returned in the suction drainage.

(4) Do not use a Luer-type syringe unless so ordered. An asepto (bulb) syringe or catheter-tip syringe is recommended for use because less pressure is exerted.

b. Equipment. 

(1) Irrigation kit (or solution bowl, emesis basin, and a 30-50 ml syringe).

(2) Solution ordered (at room temperature, unless otherwise specified).

(3) Rubber-shod hemostat forceps, 2.

c. Procedure. 

(1) Pour solution into bowl.

(2) Clamp drainage tubing.

(3) Place emesis basin under connecting tip between nasogastric tube and drainage tubing.

(4) Clamp N/G tube (or pinch off with fingers) and disconnect N/G tube from the drainage tubing.

NOTE: If suction drainage is not in use, it will be necessary to check the placement of the nasogastric tube by other means. Gentle aspiration with a syringe to check for stomach contents will verify that the tube is in the stomach.

(5) Fill syringe, insert syringe tip into N/G tube, and unclamp tube. Gently inject a small amount of solution. If fluid flows in freely, the tube is open. Continue to irrigate until the prescribed amount has been injected.

CAUTION: Do not use force.

(6) Clamp nasogastric tube and remove syringe.

(7) Reconnect nasogastric tube to the drainage tubing.

(8) Release clamps and observe for flow of drainage upon reestablishment of suction.

(9) Record time, amount, and type of solution used on the I&O worksheet.

d. Care of Irrigation Equipment. 

(1) Following a one-time irrigation, remove equipment. Dispose of used equipment properly.

(2) If equipment is kept at the bedside for repeated irrigation at scheduled intervals, rinse syringe in tap water, and keep syringe and solution bowl between folds of the wrapper. Replace with clean equipment daily.