What is the size of the Ryle's tube with white funnel and cap?

Appeared in: DSSSB 6 September 2024

Explanation

Nasogastric (NG) tubes, including Ryle's tubes, utilize a standardized color-coding system for rapid and accurate size identification.
The color of the tube's funnel or cap directly corresponds to its diameter, which is measured in French Gauge (FG).
According to this universal standard, a white funnel and cap specifically designate a tube size of 12 FG.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Identification of Ryle's tube size based on its standard color code as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Correctly identifying tube size by color is a critical patient safety measure, ensuring the appropriate tube is selected for the clinical indication (e.g., feeding, decompression, lavage).
Using a tube that is too small may lead to clogging, while a tube that is too large can cause unnecessary patient discomfort and trauma to the nasal and esophageal tissues.
What if? If a nurse needed to administer a thick enteral formula and mistakenly chose a smaller 10 FG (black) tube, the tube would be at high risk for occlusion, interrupting the feeding schedule and requiring a potentially uncomfortable replacement procedure.

How to Approach the Question

This is a factual recall question based on established standards for medical equipment.
Identify the key terms in the question: 'Ryle's tube', 'white funnel', and 'size'.
The core task is to link the color 'white' to a specific tube size.
Recall the standard color-coding system for nasogastric tubes.
Remember that white corresponds to 12 FG.
Compare this fact with the given options and select the matching one.

Concept Tested & Keywords

Concept Tested: Identification of Ryle's tube size based on its standard color code.
Stem keywords: Ryle's tube, size, white funnel, cap
Lead-in keywords: What is
Clinical cues: The color 'white' is the key visual cue for identifying the tube's size.

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Practise the full DSSSB 6 September 2024

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.