Diagnostic Accuracy of Capnography in Nasogastric Tube Placement

"Index test: Capnography, which monitors ETCO2, the percentage concentration, or partial pressure of CO2 at the end of exhalation, will serve as the index test. It will be performed by connecting the end of the nasogastric tube with the sensor of the bedside sidestream capnography device. Placement within the airway is defined as detecting a capnogram waveform or an ETCO2 level \> 10 mmHg.~Reference standard: This study will use radiography (chest/abdominal X-ray) as the reference standard for determining the correct placement of nasogastric tubes. Radiology will be performed as soon as possible and interpreted by a physician. A repeat radiography will be performed if necessary. We will also use pH-Fix-4.5-10 to determine the pH value, and its accuracy is +/- 0.2 pH with minimum increments of 0.5. A pH of 5.5 or below indicates gastric placement."