Some clients return from surgery with a gastric or intestinal tube in place and orders to connect the tube to suction. The suction ordered can be continuous or intermittent. Intermittent suction is applied when a single-lumen gastric tube is used to reduce the risk of damaging the mucous membrane near the distal port of the tube. Continuous suction may be applied if a double-lumen tube is in place. Fluids and  electrolytes must be replaced intravenously when gastric suction or continuous drainage is ordered. Nasogastric tubes may be irrigated if the lumen becomes clogged. They  are generally irrigated before and after tube feedings or the instillation of medications. Nasogastric irrigation may require a physician's order, particularly following gastrointestinal surgery. 

有些患者从手术室回来后身上留置了胃肠减压管，并要求连在负压吸引装置上，负压吸引可持续使用，也可间断使用。当我们使用单腔胃管来减少损害吸管远端端口的黏膜时，就应该应用间断性吸引管；如果留置了双腔胃管，就应该使用延续性吸引管。当医生要求使用胃吸引管或延续性吸引管时，就必须通过静脉滴注补充液体和电解质。如果鼻胃管阻塞，就必须冲洗鼻胃管；在管道输入液体或药物前后，通常都需要冲洗鼻胃管。鼻胃管冲洗必须要有医生的医嘱，特别是胃肠道手术后。