Which factor is related to complications from nasogastric tube placement?

Esophageal perforation is a significant complication associated with nasogastric tube placement due to the tube's invasive nature. The risk arises when the tube inadvertently punctures or tears the esophageal wall during insertion, which can occur if the procedure is performed improperly, if the individual has underlying anatomical abnormalities, or if the tube is advanced too forcefully. This complication can lead to serious conditions such as mediastinitis or sepsis due to the leakage of esophageal contents into the thoracic cavity.

Understanding this risk is crucial for medical professionals when they are placing nasogastric tubes, as awareness can lead to more careful technique and the monitoring of potential complications after the procedure. The other options, while they may be associated with nasogastric tube placement under certain circumstances, are either less directly related or more common in different clinical scenarios.