Double Lumen Salem Sump Tube — Dual Lumen Nasogastric Tube Use, Instructions, Gastric Decompression & Aspiration

Content:

• What is Double Lumen Salem Sump Tube?
• Dual Lumen Nasogastric Tube Use
• Salem Sump Tube Instructions
• Gastric Decompression
• Aspiration with Salem Sump Tube

What is Double Lumen Salem Sump Tube?

The Double Lumen Salem Sump Tube is a specialized type of nasogastric (NG) tube designed for both drainage and decompression of the stomach. Unlike a single-lumen Levin tube, the Salem sump features two separate lumens: one for suction (the main lumen) and another for continuous airflow (the sump lumen). This dual-lumen design helps prevent the tube from adhering to the gastric mucosa during suction, reducing the risk of injury and improving efficiency. It is made of soft, radiopaque material, allowing for comfortable insertion and easy confirmation of placement via X-ray.

This type of tube is widely used in hospitals for patients requiring gastric decompression after abdominal surgery, bowel obstruction, or ileus. It plays a critical role in preventing vomiting, aspiration, and gastric distention by draining gastric contents effectively. Its design also allows for intermittent or continuous suctioning without causing mucosal damage, making it the preferred choice for long-term nasogastric decompression.

Dual Lumen Nasogastric Tube Use

Dual lumen nasogastric tubes such as the Salem sump are used primarily for decompression, drainage, and aspiration of gastric contents. The main (large) lumen is connected to low continuous or intermittent suction, removing air, gastric secretions, and fluids. The smaller (vent) lumen remains open to atmospheric air, ensuring that negative pressure does not collapse the tube against the stomach wall. This continuous airflow acts as a safety mechanism and improves drainage efficiency.

In clinical practice, these tubes are also used for administering medications or small amounts of fluid, though their primary function is not feeding. They are common in postoperative care, bowel obstruction management, and trauma settings. Their dual-lumen structure allows for simultaneous suction and pressure equalization, reducing complications like mucosal injury, ulceration, or reflux of gastric contents back up the tube.

Salem Sump Tube Instructions

Salem sump tube insertion and use require proper technique to ensure patient safety and effectiveness. The tube is lubricated and inserted through the patient’s nostril into the stomach, typically while the patient is in a semi-upright position to facilitate passage. Correct placement is confirmed by aspirating gastric contents, auscultating over the stomach while injecting air, or ideally by radiographic verification. The main lumen is then connected to low continuous suction, while the vent lumen is kept open.

Nursing care involves regular flushing of the sump lumen with air or saline to prevent blockages, securing the tube to avoid displacement, and monitoring for complications such as nasal irritation or gastric bleeding. The blue vent lumen should never be clamped, as doing so can cause excessive suction pressure and damage gastric mucosa. Routine checks ensure the system remains patent and functional throughout its use.

Gastric Decompression

Gastric decompression is one of the primary purposes of the double lumen Salem sump tube. Decompression helps relieve pressure from accumulated gas and fluid in the stomach and upper intestines, often caused by ileus, bowel obstruction, or post-surgical conditions. By continuously removing gastric contents, the tube helps reduce abdominal distention, minimize the risk of vomiting and aspiration, and improve patient comfort.

Low continuous suction is generally preferred for decompression, though intermittent suction may be used depending on the clinical situation. The vent lumen allows air to enter, ensuring suction remains gentle and consistent. Effective gastric decompression prevents complications like aspiration pneumonia and facilitates faster recovery by allowing the gastrointestinal tract to rest and heal.

Aspiration with Salem Sump Tube

Aspiration using a Salem sump tube involves removing gastric contents through the main lumen either manually or via suction. This process is commonly used to clear ingested toxins, drain gastric secretions before surgery, or remove excess air and fluids in cases of gastrointestinal obstruction. Because of the dual-lumen design, aspiration can occur without creating excessive negative pressure that could harm gastric tissues.

Clinicians must monitor the volume and appearance of aspirated fluid, as changes may indicate bleeding, bowel obstruction, or other complications. The vent lumen must remain patent during aspiration to prevent tube collapse and mucosal damage. Regular assessment and gentle flushing of the lumens help maintain optimal function. Proper use of the Salem sump tube significantly improves patient safety and outcomes during gastric decompression and aspiration therapy.