X-ray is often referred to as the gold standard
test for confirming nasogastric feeding tube
position, and is the benchmark for assessing
the validity and reliability of alternative bedside
tests (Fernandez et al 2010). However, the
use of X-ray has many limitations. Delays to
feeding are often inevitable while the X-ray is
being taken and interpreted, and the outcome
documented. An X-ray only captures tube
position at the time the X-ray is taken, allowing
the potential for tube displacement before use.
These factors, combined with the need to protect
patients against unnecessary radiation exposure,
make X-ray an impractical choice for routine use
(Fletcher 2011). Alternative bedside methods of
confirming tube position are necessary.