Anatomical Knowledge in the Placement of Nasogastric Tubes Among General Nurses in Tertiary Hospitals in Ogun State

Nasogastric tube insertion is a fundamental nursing skill requiring applied knowledge of the anatomy of the nasal cavity, pharynx, oesophagus, and stomach. Complications of improper placement, including pulmonary intubation, nasal mucosal injury, and oesophageal perforation, are associated with significant morbidity and occasional mortality. Despite its routine clinical application, the anatomical knowledge base underpinning nasogastric tube placement among general nurses in Nigerian hospitals has not been formally assessed. This study aims to evaluate anatomical knowledge relevant to nasogastric tube insertion among general nurses at Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital and Federal Medical Centre Abeokuta, Ogun State, South West Nigeria. A structured knowledge questionnaire covering the anatomy of the pharynx, oesophagus, gastro-oesophageal junction, and confirmation landmarks will be administered alongside a simulated placement skills assessment on a mannequin. Performance will be correlated with educational level, years of nursing experience, and frequency of the procedure in practice. Findings will identify priority areas for anatomy-based skills training to improve the safety and accuracy of nasogastric tube insertion across nursing grades in Ogun State.

Keywords: nasogastric tube, nursing skills, anatomy knowledge, pharyngeal anatomy, Ogun State