The primary purpose of fine bore nasogastric
tubes is feeding rather than drainage. In adults,
6-12 French gauge (Fr) tubes are recommended,
with 8 Fr being the most commonly used size
(Lloyd and Powell-Tuck 2004, National Nurses
Nutrition Group (NNNG) 2012). In patients
where drainage is requested to monitor gastric
residual volumes, 12 Fr tubes can be useful.
Tubes differ according to the manufacturer,
but short-term tubes are typically made from
polyvinyl chloride (PVC), do not require a
guidewire and can be used for a maximum of
seven to ten days. PVC contains plasticisers that
help make the tube flexible, but over time they can
leach from the tube and cause the tube to become
hard and brittle (Medicines and Healthcare
products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) 2007).
Long-term tubes are made of polyurethane
or silicone, which are softer, and often have a
guidewire to aid insertion (NNNG 2012).