Having a Nasojejunal (N-J) Tube
A nasojejunal (N-J) tube goes into your nose and down to the first part of your small intestine to help you get liquid nutrition and medicine. Learn about how the tube is placed and how to care for it.
A nasojejunal (N-J) tube is a thin, flexible tube that goes into your nose. It leads down into your throat and stomach to reach part of the small intestine. This part of the intestine is called the jejunum. It’s just a bit past your stomach. An N-J tube helps you get nutrition and medicines. They are a vital part of recovery.
Why is an N-J tube used?
This tube will help you get the nutrition and medicines you need. An N-J tube is usually in place for a short period of time. You may need this tube if you have problems such as:
Trouble swallowing.
Ongoing vomiting.
Fluid in your lungs after you eat or drink.
Severe stomach acid reflux and inflamed esophagus.
Very slow digestion.
Very slow bowels.
Inflamed pancreas (pancreatitis).
How an N-J tube is put in
The N-J tube tip is lubricated. The tip is placed in 1 of your nostrils. The health care provider gently pushes the tube into your nose and down your throat. The provider may ask you to swallow while doing this. The tube will be pushed through your stomach and into your jejunum. After the tube is put in, the care team will then give you an X-ray. This is to check that the tube is in the right position. When it's in the right place, the tube is taped to your nose.
Caution
When the tube is in place, take care not to pull on it or move it around. This can cause it to pull out of place. The tube will then need to be fully removed and put back in.
It's important to always check placement of the N-J tube before feedings or giving medicines. Always make sure the N-J tube is in the correct position.
How an N-J tube is used
A feeding bag of liquid nutrition will be attached to the N-J tube. The bag is attached to a pump. Small amounts of the liquid nutrition are constantly pumped through the N-J tube down into your intestine.
If you need medicine through the tube, this is done with a syringe. If you need to do this at home, your care team will show you how to do it.
There are different types of N-J tubes, syringes, and feeding pumps. Follow the exact instructions given by your care team for your type of feeding.
Flushing the N-J tube
Before and after feedings or giving medicines, the tube will need to be flushed with other liquids instead of nutrition. This is to make sure the tube doesn’t get clogged. Your care team will instruct you when and how to flush the tube with water or other liquids. Make sure you flush the tube as often as instructed. If you need help, talk with your health care provider or home health nurse.
Possible side effects of an N-J tube
Call your health care provider if you have symptoms such as:
Soreness inside your nose and/or throat.
A feeling of gagging or nausea.
Diarrhea or stomach upset such as vomiting or bloating.
Symptoms of "dumping syndrome," such as feeling faint, sweaty, or dizzy or feeling heart palpitations.
Having your N-J tube removed
When it’s time for the N-J tube to be removed, it will first be flushed with fluid, as instructed by your health care provider. A member of your care team will then gently pull it up and out through your nose. This usually takes a short time.
When to contact your health care provider
Ask for a phone number to call if you need help. Contact your provider right away if you have any concerns, such as:
A tube that feels loose, moves from the original placement, or comes out.
Coughing or vomiting while feeding.
A clogged tube, or it flushes slowly.
A tube that is breaking down or cracked or has an odor.
New or worse pain or other symptoms.
A temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
Call 911
Call
Trouble breathing.
Blue, purple, or gray skin.
Bloody or coffee-colored fluid from the tube.
Dizziness or lightheadedness.
Choking.
Confusion.