Aspiration usually occurs as a result of lack of control of muscles in the upper gastrointestinal system. Inability to control food propulsion and swallowing may result in some of the digested food material getting into the respiratory tract. When this happens, the affected individual may suffer from what is termed aspiration pneumonia. It is, therefore, prudent to observe aspiration pneumonia prevention measures particularly for high risk groups. Some of these high risk groups include the aged, those with neuromuscular diseases, surgical patients and those who spend a long time in the intensive care unit.
Insertion of a nasogastric tube helps a great deal in ensuring a patient does not aspirate. The tube runs from the nostril all the way to the stomach where food is delivered. It is secured with tape to make sure that it does not accidentally get dislodged. Nasogastric tube placement is normally indicated for individuals with paralyzed muscles of the esophagus.
The tube needs to be changed from time to time as it can be a nidus for infection. It is also bound to clog if it is not cleaned or frequently changed. Only liquids and semi-solid foods can be administered through it. This is because the conduit is not large enough to allow smooth passage of solid particles.
In the event that an tube cannot be inserted even after several attempts, an alternative should be sought. Nutrients can reach the body through an infusion that runs via an intravenous system. Placement of a tube or setting up parenteral nutrition should only be used once it has been ascertained that the individual cannot tolerate any oral feeds.
Patients with stroke may often require insertion of nasogastric tubes due to the fact they present with paralysis of muscles, including those involved in swallowing. Among the first steps in the care of such patients is to confirm whether they can comfortably take in any feeds without choking. Some of the risk factors for stroke include diabetes, high blood pressure and conditions involving the heart.
There are a number of simple measures to observe when taking care of patients susceptible to aspiration so as to minimize the risk. One of them is to ensure that they sleep comfortably over a pillow such that they assume a propped up position. If there are no pillows available, the head of the bed can be elevated. In addition, the caregiver should ensure the patient lies on the side.
Patients being nursed in intensive care units over a long period of time are also likely to aspirate. Apart from propping them up and feeding them through a nasogastric tube, intubation also helps to separate the trachea from the food pipe. Those with chronic conditions also need to be monitored closely for any complications that may arise. This includes doing imaging studies of the lungs to detect any abnormalities.
In a nutshell, it should be noted that aspiration pneumonia commonly occurs in conditions where muscles in the esophagus are compromised. This typically happens among the aged, those neuromuscular disease and those in coma. Caregivers need to be patient when feeding these individuals to ensure they do not develop pneumonia due to aspiration. Placing a nasogastric tube for feeding goes a long way in preventing aspiration pneumonia for those whose muscles are completely paralyzed.
Insertion of a nasogastric tube helps a great deal in ensuring a patient does not aspirate. The tube runs from the nostril all the way to the stomach where food is delivered. It is secured with tape to make sure that it does not accidentally get dislodged. Nasogastric tube placement is normally indicated for individuals with paralyzed muscles of the esophagus.
The tube needs to be changed from time to time as it can be a nidus for infection. It is also bound to clog if it is not cleaned or frequently changed. Only liquids and semi-solid foods can be administered through it. This is because the conduit is not large enough to allow smooth passage of solid particles.
In the event that an tube cannot be inserted even after several attempts, an alternative should be sought. Nutrients can reach the body through an infusion that runs via an intravenous system. Placement of a tube or setting up parenteral nutrition should only be used once it has been ascertained that the individual cannot tolerate any oral feeds.
Patients with stroke may often require insertion of nasogastric tubes due to the fact they present with paralysis of muscles, including those involved in swallowing. Among the first steps in the care of such patients is to confirm whether they can comfortably take in any feeds without choking. Some of the risk factors for stroke include diabetes, high blood pressure and conditions involving the heart.
There are a number of simple measures to observe when taking care of patients susceptible to aspiration so as to minimize the risk. One of them is to ensure that they sleep comfortably over a pillow such that they assume a propped up position. If there are no pillows available, the head of the bed can be elevated. In addition, the caregiver should ensure the patient lies on the side.
Patients being nursed in intensive care units over a long period of time are also likely to aspirate. Apart from propping them up and feeding them through a nasogastric tube, intubation also helps to separate the trachea from the food pipe. Those with chronic conditions also need to be monitored closely for any complications that may arise. This includes doing imaging studies of the lungs to detect any abnormalities.
In a nutshell, it should be noted that aspiration pneumonia commonly occurs in conditions where muscles in the esophagus are compromised. This typically happens among the aged, those neuromuscular disease and those in coma. Caregivers need to be patient when feeding these individuals to ensure they do not develop pneumonia due to aspiration. Placing a nasogastric tube for feeding goes a long way in preventing aspiration pneumonia for those whose muscles are completely paralyzed.
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