Types of probes

Probes are medical instruments used to access the inside of the body for diagnostic, therapeutic or monitoring purposes. There are various types of probes designed for specific applications in healthcare.

In this session, we will explore in detail the different types of probes, their uses, and how they contribute to the medical care and well-being of patients.

Enteral Feeding Tubes

Nasogastric Tubes: These tubes are inserted through the nose and advanced into the stomach. They are used for the administration of enteral feeding in patients who are unable to take food by mouth.

Gastrostomy tubes: These are placed directly into the stomach through an incision in the abdominal wall. They are used in patients who need long-term feeding due to swallowing difficulties or swallowing problems.

Jejunal Tubes: These are inserted beyond the stomach and placed into the small intestine. These tubes are used in situations where feeding must be administered beyond the stomach.

Parenteral Feeding Tubes

Central Catheters: These are long tubes that are inserted into a major vein, such as the superior vena cava. They are used to deliver nutrients directly into the bloodstream in patients who cannot absorb nutrients through the digestive system.

Peripheral Catheters: These are inserted into a peripheral vein, usually in the arm or hand. They are used for the administration of intravenous solutions, including nutrients and medications.

Drainage Catheters

Vesical Catheters: They are inserted into the urinary bladder through the urethra and are used for urine drainage in cases of urinary obstruction or renal failure.

Gastric Aspiration Catheters: They are used to drain gastric contents in situations such as treatment of intestinal obstruction or gastric decompression.

Pleural Drainage Catheters: They are used to remove air or fluid accumulated in the pleural cavity in cases of pleural effusion or pneumothorax.

Monitoring Probes

Pulse Oximetry Probes: These are placed on the finger or ear to measure blood oxygen levels and heart rate.

Blood Pressure Probes: Used to