A multidisciplinary assessment of the patient
is required before nasogastric tube insertion to
ensure that nasogastric feeding is indicated and
that any identified risks have been minimised
and recorded (Table 1). Assessments should
be documented in the patient’s medical notes
(NPSA 2011). Verbal consent should be
obtained from patients who have capacity, and
best interest decision-making guidelines should
be followed for patients lacking capacity. It
should also be determined whether the patient
has made an advanced decision or directive.