gastrointestinal intubation

gastrointestinal intubation,

a nursing intervention from the Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC) defined as insertion of a tube into the GI tract. See also Nursing Interventions Classification.

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intubation [in″too-ba´shun]

the insertion of a tube, as into the larynx; see also cannulation and catheterization. The purpose of intubation varies with the location and type of tube inserted; generally it is done to allow drainage, to maintain an open airway, or to administer anesthetics or oxygen.

Intubation into the stomach or intestine is done to remove gastric or intestinal contents for the relief or prevention of distention, or to obtain a specimen for analysis. Another example of intubation is when a tube is inserted into the common bile duct to allow for drainage of bile from ducts draining the liver, done after surgery on the gallbladder or the common bile duct. Endotracheal intubation can be achieved by insertion of an endotracheal tube, sometimes containing a stylet, via the mouth or nose with the aid of a laryngoscope. It is done for the purpose of assuring patency of the upper airway. tracheostomy is a form of endotracheal intubation.

gastrointestinal intubation in the nursing interventions classification, a nursing intervention defined as insertion of a tube into the gastrointestinal tract.