Discharge Instructions: Your Nasogastric Tube (NG Tube)

You have been discharged with a nasogastric tube, or NG tube. The NG tube was put through your nose and into your stomach. It gives you food, fluids, and medicine. You have been taught how to care for the tube and how to use it. If you are unsure of something, talk with your healthcare provider.

Follow-up care

Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as directed.

When to call your healthcare provider

Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of these:

  • A tube that is dislodged from the nose

  • Coughing or trouble breathing

  • Clogged tube

  • A tube that is breaking down or cracked

  • Vomiting

  • Fever above 100.4°F (38°C), or as directed by your provider

Call 911

Call 911 if you have any of these:

  • Bloody or coffee-colored drainage from the tube

  • Dizziness or lightheadedness

  • Choking