What type of feeding tube enters through the nose and ends in the stomach?

The correct answer is the nasogastric (NG) tube, which is a type of feeding tube that is inserted through the nose and travels down the esophagus into the stomach. This method is commonly used for short-term nutritional support or to deliver medications, as it allows for easy access to the stomach without the need for surgical intervention.

The nasogastric tube is designed for temporary use and can be removed easily when no longer needed. It is also beneficial for individuals who have difficulty swallowing or require additional nutritional support due to medical conditions.

In contrast, other types of feeding tubes serve different purposes. A gastric tube typically refers to a gastrostomy tube, which is surgically placed directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall for long-term feeding. The nasojejunal tube extends beyond the stomach into the jejunum (part of the small intestine) and is used for patients who cannot tolerate feedings in the stomach. An ostomy tube involves a surgical opening (stoma) created in the abdomen for various reasons, such as bypassing the gastrointestinal tract. Thus, the nasogastric tube stands out as the correct choice for a tube that enters through the nose and ends in the stomach.