Which ED procedure is used for nasogastric decompression or feeding?

• A. Nasogastric Tube placement
• B. Nerve Block
• C. Splint Application
• D. Epistaxis Control

Answer: (A)

Using a nasogastric tube to decompress the stomach or provide enteral feeding is a common ED procedure. The tube is threaded through the nose into the stomach, and suction can remove gastric contents and air to relieve distention or aspiration risk, or the tube can deliver nutrients and medications when swallowing safely is not possible. This directly achieves nasogastric decompression or feeding, which is why it’s the appropriate choice. Other listed procedures serve different purposes—nerve blocks for regional anesthesia or pain control, splinting for immobilizing injuries, and epistaxis control for nosebleeds—so they don’t address gastric decompression or feeding. After placement, placement confirmation and monitoring for complications are important parts of the process.