Which of the following is a contraindication to placing a nasogastric tube?

• A. Esophagitis
• B. Esophageal strictures
• C. Esophageal varices
• D. Peptic ulcer disease

Answer: (B)

Passing a nasogastric tube relies on a clear, open path down the esophagus. A narrowed esophagus from a stricture makes advancement difficult or impossible and raises the risk of mucosal injury or perforation if force is used. That combination of inability to pass the tube and potential harm is why esophageal strictures are a contraindication to routine blind NG tube placement. Other conditions like esophagitis or peptic ulcer disease don’t block passage outright, though they can make the procedure more uncomfortable or raise concerns about mucosal irritation. Esophageal varices, on the other hand, raise a bleeding risk, so they’re treated as a cautionary, relative concern rather than an absolute barrier in all cases.