How long should an NG tube be used to supplement nutrients safely, if the patient is at home?
There are many variables with NG feedings, so this is a very difficult question to answer not knowing any other details. In the nursing home setting we usually use the guideline of no longer than 6 weeks for an NG tube. If the person needs enteral feeding for longer periods of time we recommend a PEG tube. However, these people have access to 24 hour nursing care. With any NG or PEG tube feeding there are specific guidelines to help to keep the patient safe (positioning the head of the bed at a 30 to 45 degree angle to avoid aspiration, careful and safe handling of the tube feeding formula, care of the tube and the skin surrounding the tube, avoiding administration of meds through the tube unless very careful guidelines are followed, and many other guidelines for more information, refer to our Diet Manual. Regardless, the person should be carefully monitored by the health care team to assure adequate care, nutrition and hydration.
