Which technique is appropriate for the nurse to implement during nasogastric (NG) tube insertion?

A) Use sterile gloves.
B) Have the patient mouth-breathe.
C) Advance the tube quickly when the patient coughs.
D) Bend the patient's head backward after the tube is through the nasopharynx.

Emphasize the need to mouth-breathe and swallow during the procedure.This facilitates passage of the tube and alleviates the patient's fears during the procedure.Put on clean gloves.Do not force the tube.If resistance is met,or if the patient starts to cough or choke,or becomes cyanotic,stop advancing the tube,pull the tube back,and start over.Have the patient flex his head toward his chest after the tube has passed through the nasopharynx.This closes off the glottis and reduces the risk that the tube may enter the trachea.