Pre‐procedure

ActionRationale

1. 1.Show
   Introduce yourself to the patient, explain and discuss the procedure with them, and gain their consent to proceed.
   To ensure that the patient feels at ease, understands the procedure and gives their valid consent (NMC [126], C).
2. 2.Show
   Assist the patient to sit in a semi‐upright position in a bed or in a chair. Support the patient's head with pillows.
   To allow for easy removal of the tube. E
3. 3.Show
   Wash hands with soap and water or an alcohol‐based handrub, and assemble the equipment required. Apply apron and clean gloves.
   Hands must be cleansed before and after patient contact to minimize the risk of cross‐infection ([115], C).

Procedure

1. 4.Show
   Remove any tape securing the nasogastric tube to the nose.
   To assist in the removal of the nasogastric tube. E
2. 5.Show
   Using a steady and constant motion, gently pull the tube until it has been completely removed.
   To remove the nasogastric tube. E

Post‐procedure

1. 6.Show
   Remove gloves and dispose of waste.
   To reduce the chance of equipment being reused. E
2. 7.Show
   Clean the nose and face to remove any traces of tape.
   To maintain skin integrity and ensure patient comfort and dignity. E
3. 8.Show
   Document the removal of the nasogastric tube in the care plan and the patient's notes.
   To ensure adequate records and to enable continued care of the patient (NMC [126], C).