Medical Consent Example
Let’s take a look at another example:
Dr. Ima Emmdee calls you stating that she needs consent to place an emergency nasogastric (NG) tube for your individual under guardianship. You ask what an NG tube is, and she states that it is a tube placed through the nose that goes down into the stomach to allow the individual to be fed artificial nutrition.
NG tubes may also be used to decompress the stomach, or they can be used to remove stomach contents; know there are other reasons for them to be placed besides nutrition.
Knowing that you need approval before consent for a surgical gastrostomy tube is placed, do you provide consent for the NG tube?
Answer
Yes, you may provide consent for an NG tube without prior approval. The NG tube is not surgically placed. An NG tube is inserted through the nose, down the esophagus, and into the stomach. An NG tube is often used in emergency situations. NG tubes can remain in place for weeks to months depending upon the physician’s recommendation and the type used.
A surgically placed gastrostomy tube, on the other hand, is not an emergency procedure. Surgically placed gastrostomy tubes (PEG tubes, for example) are usually placed for long term, goal oriented administration of artificial nutrition. Only surgically placed gastrostomy tubes require prior approval through the DAIL Nurse Consultants.
Done!