Ryle’s Tube Insertion & Removal

What is a Ryle’s Tube?

A Ryle’s tube, also known as a nasogastric (NG) tube, is a thin, flexible tube inserted through the nose, down the throat, and into the stomach. It is commonly used for:

Feeding (enteral nutrition)
Medication administration
Gastric decompression (removing stomach contents in cases of obstruction or aspiration risk)

Indications in Home Care Setup

Ryle’s tube may be used at home for patients who:

Are unable to swallow safely (e.g., due to stroke, neurological disorders)
Are recovering from surgery or illness affecting the GI tract
Have chronic conditions requiring long-term nutritional support(Parkinsons/ Dementia etc)

Components of a Ryle’s Tube Set

NG tube (usually size 12–16 Fr for adults)
Lubricant (water-based)
Glass of water with a straw (if patient is conscious)
Syringe (typically 50 mL) for flushing or aspiration
Adhesive tape or nasal fixation device
Gloves, scissors, stethoscope (if checking placement by auscultation)
pH indicator strips (for verifying gastric placement)

Insertion of Ryle’s Tube at Home

Note: This should be done by a trained healthcare professional (e.g., Doctor/nurse)

Significant fractures or deformities in the nasal or facial regions can complicate tube placement.

Pre-Insertion Preparation

Explain the procedure to the patient to reduce anxiety.
Wash hands thoroughly and wear gloves.
Position the patient in a high Fowler’s position (sitting upright at 45–90°).

Measure the tube length:

From the tip of the nose to the earlobe, then down to the xiphoid process (bottom of sternum).
Mark this length on the tube.

Insertion Steps

Lubricate the tube tip with water-based lubricant.
Insert into one nostril, gently advancing it along the floor of the nasal cavity.

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