Cultural Myths and Perceptions Regarding the Usage of Nasogastric Tube amongst Adult Maxillofacial Surgery Patients of a Tertiary Health Centre in Nigeria

Background: Nasogastric tubes (NGT) are used in the clinical setting for the management of patients who require nutritional support amongst others. Knowledge of the perceptions and Myths about NGT use would help address the problem associated with its use so that patients care can be optimal.

Aims: This study is aimed at identifying the common perceptions and myths surrounding NGT use in adult maxillofacial surgery patients.

Methods: Prospective cross sectional study of adult maxillofacial in-patients of a teaching hospital. The study period spanned from January, 2012 to December 2013. A total of 73 consenting patients were recruited.

Results: 35 males and 38 females participated in the study. The mean age was 39.4±1.42 years. Prior to the insertion of the NGT 52.1% of the patients were of the opinion that the NGT was necessary while the others had a contrary opinion. Despite considering that NGT use was necessary 62% of them did not feel that it could help speed up their recovery. The myths associated with NGT use were that it causes death (n-6, 8.2%), it indicates patient would not recover (n-11,15.1%) and that it slows down recovery (n=27; 32.9%). Education significantly affected the perception of NGT use as an indication of terminal illness; with the higher the educational status the less likely the perception of NGT as an indication of a terminal illness (P = 0.0001).

Conclusion: The identified myths and negative perceptions have to be addressed with adequate counseling to help improve patient acceptance of the procedure.