Identify the following tube?

AIIMS Rishikesh NO - 2019

Medical Surgical Nursing

Easy

Appeared in: AIIMS Rishikesh NO - 2019

Explanation

The image displays a Ryle's tube, a specific type of single-lumen nasogastric (NG) tube.
It is primarily used for short-term purposes such as enteral feeding (gastric gavage), administering medications, or gastric decompression.
Key visual identifiers matching the image include the flexible, single-lumen design, measurement markings for insertion depth (50 cm, 60 cm), a size indicator (FG 14), a closed distal tip with side ports, and a proximal funnel connector with a cap.

Option B: A Miller tube (or Miller-Abbott tube) is an intestinal tube, not a gastric tube. It is longer and has a weighted balloon at its tip to help it pass through the pylorus into the small intestine.
Option C: While a Ryle's tube is a type of nasogastric (NG) tube, 'NG Tube' is a general classification. In identification questions, the most specific and accurate answer is preferred. The features shown allow for the specific identification as a Ryle's tube.
Option D: A suction catheter is designed to remove secretions from the respiratory tract (e.g., trachea, bronchi), not for gastric access. It is typically shorter and has a different proximal connector, often with a thumb valve to control suction.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of common medical tubes as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Confirming placement is the most critical nursing responsibility before using the tube. The gold standard is a chest/abdominal X-ray. Bedside methods include aspirating gastric contents and testing the pH (should be acidic, with a pH less than 5.5).
Regular flushing (e.g., with 30 mL of water every 4 hours during continuous feeds, and before/after intermittent feeds/meds) is essential to maintain patency and prevent clogging.
Nurses must provide regular nasal and oral hygiene to prevent discomfort, skin breakdown at the nares, and oral infections, as the tube can cause irritation and mouth breathing.

How to Approach the Question

This is an image-based identification question, which requires visual recognition of medical equipment.
First, carefully examine the image provided. Note the key characteristics of the tube: its length, flexibility, color, and any visible markings or parts.
Identify specific features: a single channel (lumen), measurement marks in centimeters, a size marking (FG 14), a closed tip with side holes, and a funnel-shaped connector with a cap.
Consider the function implied by these features. The length and markings suggest it is inserted into the body to a specific depth, and the lumen is for instilling or removing fluid/gas.
Evaluate the given options against your observations. A 'Miller tube' has a balloon tip. A 'Suction Catheter' is for the airway and has a different connector. 'NG Tube' is a general term.
Select 'Ryle's Tube' because it is the most specific and accurate name for the single-lumen nasogastric tube shown, which is widely used for feeding and decompression.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 1 Part 2 p. 89-91

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 6 p. 43-45