Preventing Respiratory Complications of Tube Feedings: Evidence-Based Practice

Resident-Driven Guideline to Reduce Iatrogenic Pneumothoraxes From Small-Bore Feeding Tubes: A Quality and Safety Improvement Project

Small-bore feeding tubes (SBFT) in vulnerable patients carry a risk of iatrogenic pneumothorax by misplacement into the lung. This institution noted a series of iatrogenic pneumothoraxes caused by the placement of these devices. A resident-led, multidisciplinary team developed a hospital guideline through a consensus-driven process. The guideline mandated SBFT placement by approved "super-users" via the CORTRAK Enteral Access System or via non-CORTRAK Methods, including the 2-step X-ray Method, fluoroscopy, or direct visualization techniques. A "super-user" Program for the CORTRAK Enteral Access System was developed to assure competency and consistency. With the development of the guideline and "super-user" program, the authors observed a decrease in the number of SBFT-related iatrogenic pneumothoraxes. Following a brief period of adoption, the three-hospital organization has had no SBFT-related iatrogenic pneumothoraxes. This project demonstrates the effectiveness of developing a resident-driven, evidence-based hospital guideline for the safe passage of SBFTs.

The clinical effectiveness of the corrected nose-earlobe-xiphoid distance formula in determining the internal length of a nasogastric tube in adults: A retrospective study

INTRODUCTION

Accurate determination of the internal length of nasogastric tubes is essential for the safe and effective completion of blind insertions, a routine nursing procedure. The widely used nose-earlobe-xiphoid distance lacks evidence and effectiveness. A recent randomized controlled trial proposed an alternative, the corrected nose-earlobe-xiphoid distance formula. However, its effectiveness in real-world clinical practice has not yet been studied.

OBJECTIVE

This study assessed the real-world clinical effectiveness of the corrected nose-earlobe-xiphoid distance formula for determining the internal nasogastric tube length in adult patients admitted to hospitalization or intensive care units.

DESIGN

A single-center retrospective clinical effectiveness study was conducted, utilizing routinely collected observational data.

SETTING AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Between October 2020 and November 2022, 358 adult patients in a general hospital requiring a nasogastric feeding tube were included. The primary outcome involved assessing nasogastric tube tip positioning (>3 cm below the lower esophageal sphincter) by an advanced practice nurse through X-ray verification. Secondary outcomes, obtained from patient records for a random subgroup of 100 participants, were reporting clarity and evaluation of the tip position by reviewing radiologists.

RESULTS

Following evaluation by an advanced practice nurse, all nasogastric feeding tubes were determined to be correctly positioned. Among the subgroup of 100 tubes, X-ray protocols, as documented by the reviewing radiologists, showed varying levels of reporting clarity for the tube tip: 4.0 % lacked reporting, 33.0 % had ambiguous reporting and 63.0 % had unambiguous reporting.

CONCLUSION

The corrected nose-earlobe-xiphoid distance formula demonstrates potential to emerge as a safer alternative to existing methods for determining the internal length of nasogastric tubes.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE

In addition to healthcare provider education and training, a checklist-based framework is recommended for radiologists to unambiguously report nasogastric tube tip positions.

The Therapeutic Effect of Swallow Training with a Xanthan Gum-Based Thickener in Addition to Classical Dysphagia Therapy in Chinese Patients with Post-Stroke Oropharyngeal Dysphagia: A Randomized Controlled Study

Objective

In patients with post-stroke oropharyngeal dysphagia (PSOD), classical dysphagia therapy (CDT) continues to provide unsatisfactory outcomes and makes it challenging for them to remove the nasal feeding tube. Increasing bolus viscosity helps prevent aspiration in PSOD. However, conventional starch thickeners enhance post-digestion residue. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of swallow training with xanthan gum-based thickener (XGT) (Softia G, NUTRI Co., Ltd., Yokkaichi, Japan) additional to CDT in Chinese PSOD patients with a nasogastric tube when compared to CDT alone.

Methods

Patients with PSOD who had a nasogastric tube were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (E-group) or the control group (C-group) in this randomized controlled, single-blind, parallel-group study. Both groups received CDT for 4 weeks. The E-group cases received additional swallow training with a Softia G-prepared hydrogel training material. The Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) and modified volume-viscosity swallow test (M-VVST) for swallowing safety and efficacy according to adjusted Chinese dietary habits were administered before and after treatment. Post-training, both groups' nasogastric tube removal rates were calculated.

Results

One hundred sixty-seven participants (E-group: 82 and C-group: 85) completed the study. The E-group's median score of FOIS improved significantly than the C-group after training (median = 5 vs. 3, P < 0.001). The incidence of coughing, voice changes, oxygen desaturation of 3% or more, pharyngeal residue and piecemeal deglutition in the E-group was significantly lower than that in the C-group (P < 0.05). The E-group had 100% nasogastric tube removal, while the C-group had 28.24% (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Swallow training with XGT Softia G in addition to CDT can promote swallowing safety and efficacy in Chinese patients with PSOD more effectively than CDT alone.

Risk factors for ventilator-associated pneumonia in trauma patients with torso injury: a retrospective single-center study

Objective

We aimed to identify the risk factors for ventilator-associated pneumonia in patients admitted to critical care after a torso injury.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 178 patients with torso injury aged >15 years who were intubated in the emergency room and placed on a mechanical ventilator after intensive care unit (ICU) admission, survived for >48 hours, had thoracic and/or abdominal injuries, and had no end-stage renal disease. We compared clinico-laboratory variables between ventilator-associated pneumonia (n = 54, 30.3%) and non-ventilator-associated pneumonia (n = 124, 69.7%) groups. Risk factors for ventilator-associated pneumonia were assessed using multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

Ventilator-associated pneumonia was associated with a significantly longer stay in the ICU (11.3 vs. 6.8 days) and longer duration of mechanical ventilation (7 vs. 3 days). Injury Severity Score (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.048; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.008–1.090), use of vasopressors (AOR: 2.541; 95% CI: 1.121–5.758), and insertion of a nasogastric tube (AOR: 6.749; 95% CI: 2.397–18.999) were identified as independent risk factors of ventilator-associated pneumonia.

Conclusion

Ventilator-associated pneumonia in patients with torso injury who were admitted to the ICU was highly correlated with Injury Severity Score, use of vasopressors, and insertion of a nasogastric tube.

Hemothorax Following Traumatic Dobhoff Tube Insertion

Dobhoff tube is a specialized small-bore and flexible nasogastric tube that makes it more comfortable for placement than a usual nasogastric tube. Dobhoff tube insertion is commonly considered a relatively safe bedside procedure, but it is not without its associated risks. Inadvertent tracheobronchial placement of Dobhoff tube has been associated with severe complications, most notably pneumothorax. We present a rare cause of right-sided hemothorax following tracheobronchial insertion of a Dobhoff tube with a prolonged and arduous clinical course.

Risk Assessment of Intermittent and Continuous Nasogastric Enteral Feeding Methods in Adult Inpatients: A Meta-Analysis

Diarrhea and pneumonia are common and serious complications in hospitalized patients requiring nasogastric enteral feeding. Our study aimed to compare the risk of diarrhea and pneumonia between intermittent nasogastric enteral feeding (IEF) and continuous nasogastric enteral feeding (CEF). We systematically searched PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane for relevant articles published from August 9, 1992, to September 1, 2019. A total of 637 IEF and CEF patients were included in our meta-analysis. Odds ratios (ORs) with associated 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to estimate the effects of diarrhea and pneumonia. We showed that hospital patients that required IEF had an increased risk of diarrhea compared with CEF. In the subgroup analyses, similar conclusions were identified in the non-China group and small sample size group (size < 100). However, our results showed no significant differences in the China group or large sample size group (size ≥ 100). Furthermore, our analysis showed that no significant association was observed for the risk of pneumonia between IEF and CEF patients. For inpatients requiring nasogastric enteral feeding, CEF is a better method of enteral nutrition compared with IEF, of which patients experience a significantly increased risk of diarrhea.

Factors associated with insufficient nasogastric tube visibility on X-ray: a retrospective analysis

OBJECTIVES

Chest X-ray imaging is frequently used for verifying the position of a blindly inserted nasogastric tube. A high-quality X-ray increases the likelihood of conclusive visibility of tube tip positioning, thus avoiding risks due to a misplaced tube (e.g., pulmonary intubation, pneumothorax, small bowel insertion). Therefore, this study aims to determine patient-related and environmental factors affecting the visibility of nasogastric tubes on X-ray in adults.

METHODS

A retrospective descriptive analysis of routinely collected clinical data was performed on all included patients (N = 215) from a prospective randomized trial in a general hospital. A chest X-ray was taken of each patient needing a nasogastric feeding tube, after which visibility and positioning of the tube on X-ray was independently evaluated by 3 radiologists.

RESULTS

In 14.9% (n = 32) of all patients, image quality was insufficient, so no conclusive visibility of nasogastric tube positioning could be found. A patient-related predictor regression model (sex, age, body mass index) explained 21% of variance for an insufficient visibility of the nasogastric tube (Nagelkerke R² = 0.21). An environmental factor regression model demonstrates a guidewire being inside the tube or not during X-ray as a predictor for a conclusive visibility on X-ray.

CONCLUSIONS

High body mass index, male sex, and the absence of a guidewire inside the nasogastric tube at the time of chest X-ray are associated with a risk of insufficient visibility of the tube on X-ray. Patient profiles can be defined in which supplementary attention is needed when obtaining chest X-rays whose purpose is to confirm nasogastric tube positioning.

KEY POINTS

• The quality of chest X-rays to confirm the positioning of nasogastric tubes in adults can be improved considerably. • There are several factors influencing the confirmation of nasogastric tube positioning on X-ray. • Defining patient profiles at risk for an insufficient visibility of the tube on X-ray will indirectly contribute to an improvement of the chest X-ray quality.

Mortality and Institutionalization After Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy in Parkinson's Disease and Related Conditions

Background

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) can facilitate feeding and medication administration in dysphagic patients with Parkinson's disease and related disorders. Information on survival, institutionalization, and complications post PEG might inform feeding decisions.

Method

A total of 93 patients with Parkinson's disease and related disorders were identified by review of PEG registers and by searching the administrative databases in 2 large UK university hospitals (2005-2017); 83 case notes were available for retrospective review. Care processes and outcomes were assessed.

Results

The following were the diagnoses: 58 (70%) had Parkinson's disease, 10 (12%) had progressive supranuclear palsy, 5 (6%) had multiple system atrophy, 3 (4%) had dementia with Lewy bodies, and 7 (8%) had vascular parkinsonism. The median age was 78 years (interquartile range 72-82); 29 (35%) were women. Care processes included a future care plan in place prior to admission for 18 patients (22%), and PEG was placed during emergency admission in 68 patients (82%). The outcomes included median survival at 422 days; 30-day mortality rate was 6% (5 patients); and of 56 patients admitted from home, 18 (32%) were discharged to institutions (nursing or care homes). The most common complication was aspiration pneumonia for 18 (22%) of patients. Age, sex, diagnosis, admission type, comorbidities, and place of residence did not predict survival. Discharge to own home and follow-up by the home enteral feeding team were associated with longer survival.

Conclusion

We recommend markers of advanced disease should prompt advanced care planning. Discussions about PEG feeding should include information about post-PEG survival, complications, and risk of institutionalization. Further research is needed on quality-of-life post PEG and ways to reduce aspiration pneumonia. All PEG patients should have nutrition team follow-up.

Accuracy of the corrected nose-earlobe-xiphoid distance formula for determining nasogastric feeding tube insertion length in intensive care unit patients: A prospective observational study

BACKGROUND

As nasogastric feeding tube insertion is a frequently applied, non-risk-free nursing technique, a high level of evidence-based nursing care is required. Little evidence is available regarding the accurate determination of the insertion length of nasogastric feeding tubes. The method of using the nose-earlobe-xiphoid distance as measurement is inadequate and not supported by evidence. Findings from a recent randomized trial led to an alternative calculation: the corrected nose-earlobe-xiphoid distance formula: (nose-earlobe-xiphoid distance × 0.38696) + 30.37 + 6 cm.

OBJECTIVES

To test the accuracy of the corrected nose-earlobe-xiphoid distance formula for determining the required nasogastric feeding tube insertion length in adults admitted on an intensive care unit and to investigate the probability to successfully obtain gastric aspirate for pH measurement.

DESIGN

Prospective, single-center observational study.

PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS

Adult intensive care unit patients in a general hospital (N = 218) needing a small-bore nasogastric feeding tube were included between March and September 2018. Correct tip positioning was defined as a tube tip located > 3 cm under the lower esophageal sphincter. Tip positioning was verified using X-ray.

RESULTS

All nasogastric feeding tube tips were correctly positioned > 3 cm under the lower esophageal sphincter. The chance of successfully obtaining gastric aspirate within 2 h after placement of the tube was 77.9%.

CONCLUSIONS

With all tips positioned > 3 cm in the stomach and zero tubes migrating back into the esophagus, the corrected nose-earlobe-xiphoid distance formula can be considered a more accurate method to determine nasogastric feeding tube insertion length.

Enteral Access Devices: Types, Function, Care, and Challenges

Enteral access feeding devices are placed in patients who have a functional and accessible gastrointestinal (GI) tract but are not able to consume or absorb enough nutrients to sustain adequate nutrition and hydration. For many individuals, enteral nutrition support is a lifesaving modality to prevent or treat a depleted nutrient state that can lead to tissue breakdown, compromised immune function, and poor wound healing. Psychological well-being is also affected with malnutrition and dehydration, triggering feelings of apathy, depression, fatigue, and loss of morale, negatively impacting a patient's ability for self-care. A variety of existing devices can be placed through the nares, mouth, stomach or small intestine to provide liquid nutrition, fluids, and medications directly to the GI tract. If indicated, some of the larger-bore devices may be used for gastric decompression and drainage. These enteral access devices need to be cared for properly to avert patient discomfort, mechanical device-related complications, and interruptions in the delivery of needed nutrients, hydration, and medications. Clinicians who seek knowledge about enteral access devices and actively participate in the selection and care of these devices will be an invaluable resource to any healthcare team. This article will review the types, care, proper positioning, and replacement schedules of the various enteral access devices, along with the prevention and troubleshooting of potential problems.

Diagnostic accuracy of methods used to verify nasogastric tube position in mechanically ventilated adult patients: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Nasogastric tubes are widely used in hospitals, e.g. for the administration of nutrients. However, nasogastric tubes can be inserted accidently into the airways leading to complications like pneumonia, pneumothorax and even death. Mechanically ventilated patients are at high risk of having a nasogastric tube misplaced, since they often have reduced consciousness and weak cough reflex. A variety of methods have been used for determination of nasogastric tube placement, but with varying success.

OBJECTIVES

The present systematic review was carried out to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of methods used to determine nasogastric tube placement in mechanically ventilated adult patients.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

Studies including mechanically ventilated adult patients with a nasogastric tube were considered for inclusion, regardless of the type of nasogastric tube.All methods (index tests) used to verify nasogastric tubes placed in the airways and in the gastrointestinal tract were included. As a reference standard, X-ray was used to verify the accuracy of each index test.The studies that were included in the present systematic review were designed based on diagnostic test accuracy studies.The outcome was the accuracy (sensitivity and specificity) of the methods to discriminate between respiratory and gastrointestinal placement of the nasogastric tube.

SEARCH STRATEGY

The search strategy aimed to find both published and unpublished studies before September 2013. Eleven electronic databases were searched including CINAHL, PubMed, Scopus and Embase.

METHODOLOGICAL QUALITY

Methodological quality was assessed independently by two reviewers using QUADAS as a critical appraisal tool.

DATA EXTRACTION

Data were extracted by two reviewers independently using a modified Joanna Briggs Institute data extraction form including specific details such as: population, setting, index test, sensitivity and specificity.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Sensitivity and specificity were extracted from the studies and presented in tables. When these were not written in the studies, calculations were performed based on data presented in the studies.

RESULTS

Five relevant papers describing two different methods for determining nasogastric tube position were identified: colorimetric capnography (four studies) and capnography (one study).In all four studies examining colorimetric capnography the sensitivity was 100% when nasogastric tubes were inserted intentionally into the airways through an already existing tracheal tube, thereby imitating misplaced nasogastric tubes. When inserted through the nose, the sensitivity was 88-100% and specificity was 99-100%.Capnography obtained a specificity of 100% but sensitivity for when the nasogastric tube was inserted through the nose could not be calculated based on available data.

CONCLUSIONS

We found evidence (Level 2b) for colorimetric capnography to be a valid method for verifying nasogastric tube placement.Capnography also detected nasogastric tube position with very high accuracy. However, since these methods were tested in only a single study with a limited sample size, further research is required before clinical recommendations can be made.Despite the impressive results obtained by using colorimetric capnography, implication for practice is not straightforward. A concern is that the colorimetric capnograph is not produced by the manufacture to fit a NG tube and therefore has to be connected to the NG tube by an adaptor-system. Practical issues therefore have to be resolved if the method is supposed to become a standard procedure in a clinical setting.The execution of the procedure using colorimetric capnography differs between the studies. This systematic review therefore recommends that further research should be done to optimize the execution of the procedure.We also recommend that further research be done to reproduce the results obtained using capnography, since this method was tested only in a single study with a limited sample size.

Nurse Performed Ultrasonography in Confirming the Position of Nasogastric Tube in the Emergency Department: A Prospective Single Group Diagnostic Test Study

Introduction

Emergency nurses often encounter patients with nasogastric tube (NGT) dislodgements who require reinsertion. Empirical evidence supporting the use of ultrasonography in verifying the position of NGT in local accident and emergency departments (AED) is scanty. There is also a lack of validation of nurse performed ultrasonography in Hong Kong. With the support from hospitals and medical personnel, a prospective, single group diagnostic test study was conducted to review the possibility of nurse performed ultrasonography in verifying the position of NGT in AED.

Methods

This study was conducted in the AED of three local hospitals. Investigators with specific ultrasound training performed ultrasonography scans to the subjects in addition to conventional pH test and “whoosh” test. Results were compared with chest or abdominal X-ray for evaluation of accuracies.

Results

This study confirmed a high sensitivity and specificity of nurse performed ultrasonography in confirming the position of NGT in the AED. The high positive predictive value and positive likelihood ratio supported the confirmation of NGT position by bedside ultrasound. The high specificities and minimal negative likelihood ratios of ultrasonography tests also suggested the application of bedside ultrasound in ruling out patients with misplaced NGTs.

Conclusions

Nurse performed ultrasonography allows immediate bedside confirmation of the position of NGT in the overcrowded AED. Considered the limitations of conventional methods, nurse performed ultrasonography can be incorporated into daily practice for providing extra evidence for the confirmation of NGT position.

Initial nutritional management during noninvasive ventilation and outcomes: a retrospective cohort study

Background

Patients starting noninvasive ventilation (NIV) to treat acute respiratory failure are often unable to eat and therefore remain in the fasting state or receive nutritional support. Maintaining a good nutritional status has been reported to improve patient outcomes. In the present study, our primary objective was to describe the nutritional management of patients starting first-line NIV, and our secondary objectives were to assess potential associations between nutritional management and outcomes.

Methods

Observational retrospective cohort study of a prospective database fed by 20 French intensive care units. Adult medical patients receiving NIV for more than 2 consecutive days were included and divided into four groups on the basis of nutritional support received during the first 2 days of NIV: no nutrition, enteral nutrition, parenteral nutrition only, and oral nutrition only.

Results

Of the 16,594 patients admitted during the study period, 1075 met the inclusion criteria; of these, 622 (57.9%) received no nutrition, 28 (2.6%) received enteral nutrition, 74 (6.9%) received parenteral nutrition only, and 351 (32.7%) received oral nutrition only. After adjustment for confounders, enteral nutrition (vs. no nutrition) was associated with higher 28-day mortality (adjusted HR, 2.3; 95% CI, 1.2–4.4) and invasive mechanical ventilation needs (adjusted HR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.1–4.2), as well as with fewer ventilator-free days by day 28 (adjusted relative risk, 0.7; 95% CI, 0.5–0.9).

Conclusions

Nearly three-fifths of patients receiving NIV fasted for the first 2 days. Lack of feeding or underfeeding was not associated with mortality. The optimal route of nutrition for these patients needs to be investigated.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13054-017-1867-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Administering Polyethylene Glycol Electrolyte Solution Via a Nasogastric Tube: Pulmonary Complications

BACKGROUND

Patients sometimes require insertion of a nasogastric tube for the administration of a large volume of a polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution. If the tube is malpositioned, the risk for direct instillation of the solution into the lung increases. The risk for aspiration also increases if the infusion rate exceeds gastrointestinal tolerance.

PURPOSE

To review published cases of patients' experiencing adverse pulmonary events after administration of polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution via a nasogastric tube and to offer suggestions to prevent these outcomes.

METHODS

A search of the literature from 1993 through 2014 was performed by using the PubMed, MEDLINE, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Scopus databases.

RESULTS

In the 12 case reports located, none of the patients had radiographs to verify tube location before infusion of polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution. After symptoms developed in 3 children (ages 8-11 years), radiographs showed their tubes incorrectly positioned in the bronchus, lung, or esophagus; ports of a fourth child's tube were in the oropharynx. The remaining 8 patients (ages 5-86 years) never had radiographs to determine tube placement. Pulmonary complications from the infusions of polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution contributed to the death of 5 of the patients.

CONCLUSION

Relatively simple maneuvers to reduce the likelihood of adverse pulmonary events following the administration of large volumes of polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution via a nasogastric tube are well worth the cost and effort to protect patients from potential serious injury.

Investigation of the efficacy of colorimetric capnometry method used to verify the correct placement of the nasogastric tube

OBJECTIVES

This present study was designed to determine the efficacy of the colorimetric capnometry method used to verify the correct placement of the nasogastric tube.

METHODS

The present study comprised forty patients who had a nasogastric tube inserted and were being monitored in the adult intensive care unit. After the insertion of the nasogastric tube, 40 colorimetric capnometry and 40 auscultation measurements were performed. Auscultation and colorimetric capnometry results were compared with tube placement results confirmed radiologically.

RESULTS

In the confirmation of the placement of the nasogastric tube, the consistency was 97.5% (p<0.05) between the colorimetric capnometry method and the radiological method, and 82.5% (p>0.05) between the auscultatory method and the radiological method. The oesophageal placement of the nasogastric tube was detected with the colorimetric capnometry method, but the gastric and duodenal insertions were not determined. While the sensitivity and specificity of the colorimetric capnometry method in determining the correct placement of the nasogastric tube were 1.00 and 0.667 respectively, those of the auscultatory method were 0.89 and 0.0 respectively.

CONCLUSION

As a result, for the confirmation of the NGT placement, the colorimetric capnometry method is considered more reliable than the auscultatory method and is compatible with the radiological method. However, the colorimetric capnometry method is inadequate to distinguish between the gastric or duodenal insertion.

ASPEN Safe Practices for Enteral Nutrition Therapy [Formula: see text]

Enteral nutrition (EN) is a valuable clinical intervention for patients of all ages in a variety of care settings. Along with its many outcome benefits come the potential for adverse effects. These safety issues are the result of clinical complications and of process-related errors. The latter can occur at any step from patient assessment, prescribing, and order review, to product selection, labeling, and administration. To maximize the benefits of EN while minimizing adverse events requires that a systematic approach of care be in place. This includes open communication, standardization, and incorporation of best practices into the EN process. This document provides recommendations based on the available evidence and expert consensus for safe practices, across each step of the process, for all those involved in caring for patients receiving EN.

Examining the evidence to guide practice: challenging practice habits

Nurses are the largest segment of the nation's health care workforce, which makes nurses vital to the translation of evidence-based practice as a practice norm. Critical care nurses are in a position to critically appraise and apply best evidence in daily practice to improve patients' outcomes. It is important for critical care nurses to continually evaluate their current practice to ensure that they are applying the current best evidence rather than practicing on the basis of tradition. This article is based on a presentation at the 2013 National Teaching Institute of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses. Four practice interventions that are within the realm of nursing are critiqued on the basis of current best evidence: (1) turning critically ill patients, (2) sleep promotion in the intensive care unit, (3) feeding tube management in infants and children, and (4) prevention of venothromboembolism…again. The related beliefs, current evidence, and implications for practice associated with each topic are described.

Use of an Electromagnetic Device Compared With Chest X-ray to Confirm Nasogastric Feeding Tube Position in Critical Care

BACKGROUND

Insertion of nasogastric feeding tubes (NGTs) is common in critical care. However, misplacement is frequent and can carry a significant morbidity. Current methods to confirm position of NGTs are not reliable in this setting. We retrospectively compared the position of NGTs using an electromagnetically guided nasogastric tube (e-NGT) with that demonstrated by chest x-ray (CXR), the proportion of lung placements avoided, and the time taken to establish enteral feeding.

METHODS

This was a retrospective, observational study undertaken in a tertiary referral, adult intensive care unit between February 2006 and November 2013. Patients were included if they had a radiologically confirmed NGT. All CXRs were independently reviewed by an intensivist to determine position, and a subset of patients had their e-NGT image independently reviewed for quality control. Statistical analysis was in the form of sensitivity and specificity and descriptive where indicated.

RESULTS

In total, 121 NGT placements in 113 patients were analyzed. We found a sensitivity of 98% (95% confidence interval [CI], 93.9%-99.7%) and a specificity of 100% (95% CI, 48.0%-100.0%) when using the e-NGT compared with CXR. In the subset of 51 independently reviewed e-NGT images, 9 lung placements were avoided. The mean (SD) time from e-NGT placement to CXR was 185 (264.4) minutes and to feeding was 404 (77.8) minutes.

CONCLUSION

When placed by a dedicated team, e-NGT allowed immediate detection of tube misplacement. As such, if used as the sole method for determining NGT position, e-NGTs minimize feeding delay and the need for multiple CXRs with subsequent cost savings.

Nasogastric tube placement and verification in children: review of the current literature

Placement of a nasogastric enteral access device (NG-EAD), often referred to as a nasogastric tube, is a common practice and largely in the domain of nursing care. Most often an NG-EAD is placed at the bedside without radiographic assistance. Correct initial placement and ongoing location verification are the primary challenges surrounding NG-EAD use and have implications for patient safety. Although considered an innocuous procedure, placement of an NG-EAD carries risk of serious and potentially lethal complications. Despite acknowledgment that an abdominal radiograph is the gold standard, other methods of verifying placement location are widely used and have success rates from 80% to 85%. The long-standing challenges surrounding bedside placement of NG-EADs and a practice alert issued by the Child Health Patient Safety Organization on this issue were the stimuli for the conception of The New Opportunities for Verification of Enteral Tube Location Project sponsored by the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition. Its mission is to identify and promote best practices with the potential of technology development that will enable accurate determination of NG-EAD placement for both the inpatient and outpatient pediatric populations. This article presents the challenges of bedside NG-EAD placement and ongoing location verification in children through an overview of the current state of the science. It is important for all healthcare professionals to be knowledgeable about the current literature, to be vigilant for possible complications, and to avoid complacency with NG-EAD placement and ongoing verification of tube location.

Nasogastric tube placement and verification in children: review of the current literature

Placement of a nasogastric enteral access device (NG-EAD), often referred to as a nasogastric tube, is common practice and largely in the domain of nursing care. Most often an NG-EAD is placed at the bedside without radiographic assistance. Correct initial placement and ongoing location verification are the primary challenges surrounding NG-EAD use and have implications for patient safety. Although considered an innocuous procedure, placement of an NG-EAD carries risk of serious and potentially lethal complications. Despite acknowledgment that an abdominal radiograph is the gold standard, other methods of verifying placement location are widely used and have success rates from 80% to 85%. The long-standing challenges surrounding bedside placement of NG-EADs and a practice alert issued by the Child Health Patient Safety Organization on this issue were the stimuli for the conception of The New Opportunities for Verification of Enteral Tube Location Project sponsored by the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition. Its mission is to identify and promote best practices with the potential of technology development that will enable accurate determination of NG-EAD placement for both the inpatient and outpatient pediatric populations. This article presents the challenges of bedside NG-EAD placement and ongoing location verification in children through an overview of the current state of the science. It is important for all health care professionals to be knowledgeable about the current literature, to be vigilant for possible complications, and to avoid complacency with NG-EAD placement and ongoing verification of tube location.

Examination of accuracy in the assessment of gastric residual volume: a simulated, controlled study

BACKGROUND

Increased gastric content from enteral nutrition intolerance is thought to place patients at risk for pulmonary aspiration. Although considered a questionable practice, blind gastric tube aspiration is the most common approach to measure gastric content. This simulated study evaluated the accuracy of residual volume (RV) assessment via tube aspirations made from known volumes by controlling the syringe pull technique, feeding tube properties, fluid viscosity, and placement of tubes in the fluid.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was conducted in a metrology laboratory. Aspirates were obtained using a force measurement test system to control force of the syringe pull technique using 3 different procedures (slow 10 inches per minute [ipm], intermittent 10 ipm, and fast 40 ipm). Four different feeding tubes, 10 Fr and 18 Fr, each made of polyurethane and polyvinyl chloride, were placed in varying depths of 100 mL of either water or formula. The effect of fluid viscosity was also examined.

RESULTS

Overall, 108 RVs were analyzed using a force measurement test system. Actual content of RV was underestimated 19% on average and varied across tube size and viscosity. Intermittent and slow syringe pull techniques yielded greater aspirate quantities, although neither technique aspirated the full amount of volume available. The 10 Fr feeding tubes yielded larger RVs in more viscous fluid, yet the 18 Fr tubes performed better with fluids of lower viscosity.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on this simulation, RV assessment does not accurately reflect the total volume of the contents available and, therefore, the clinical utility of this assessment should be further investigated.

ICU-acquired swallowing disorders

OBJECTIVES

Patients hospitalized in the ICU can frequently develop swallowing disorders, resulting in an inability to effectively transfer food, liquids, and pills from their mouth to stomach. The complications of these disorders can be devastating, including aspiration, reintubation, pneumonia, and a prolonged hospital length of stay. As a result, critical care practitioners should understand the optimal diagnostic strategies, proposed mechanisms, and downstream complications of these ICU-acquired swallowing disorders.

DATA SOURCES

Database searches and a review of the relevant medical literature.

DATA SYNTHESIS

A significant portion of the estimated 400,000 patients who annually develop acute respiratory failure, require endotracheal intubation, and survive to be extubated are determined to have dysfunctional swallowing. This group of swallowing disorders has multiple etiologies, including local effects of endotracheal tubes, neuromuscular weakness, and an altered sensorium. The diagnosis of dysfunctional swallowing is usually made by a speech-language pathologist using a bedside swallowing evaluation. Major complications of swallowing disorders in hospitalized patients include aspiration, reintubation, pneumonia, and increased hospitalization. The national yearly cost of swallowing disorders in hospitalized patients is estimated to be over $500 million. Treatment modalities focus on changing the consistency of food, changing mealtime position, and/or placing feeding tubes to prevent aspiration.

CONCLUSIONS

Swallowing disorders are costly and clinically important in a large population of ICU patients. The development of effective screening strategies and national diagnostic standards will enable further studies aimed at understanding the precise mechanisms for these disorders. Further research should also concentrate on identifying modifiable risk factors and developing novel treatments aimed at reducing the significant burden of swallowing dysfunction in critical illness survivors.

Capnography: An Accurate Method to Assess the Position of the Feeding Tube in a Porcine Model

Objective

To test the accuracy of capnography in the differential placement of feeding tubes into the trachea versus the oesophagus.

Method

Nineteen pigs were anesthetised, and feeding tubes were placed into their tracheas and oesophagi. A naïve examiner attached a capnography to the tube and evaluated the presence or absence of flow waveforms on the capnography. In the next step experiment, we gave 20 intentional oesophageal ventilations to the animals to create a distended stomach. The feeding tubes were reinserted, and examined by a naïve examiner by capnography.

Results

Capnography demonstrated continuous flow waveforms for the feeding tubes placed in the tracheas, but no waveforms were observed for those placed in the oesophagi. In the next step experiment, we found the same results.

Conclusion

Capnography can be used to accurately determine the placement of tracheal versus oesophageal feeding tubes based on the presence or absence of flow waveforms.

Nutrition and the circadian timing system

Life on earth has evolved under the daily rhythm of light and dark. Consequently, most creatures experience a daily rhythm in food availability. In this review, we first introduce the mammalian circadian timing system, consisting of a central clock in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) and peripheral clocks in various metabolic tissues including liver, pancreas, and intestine. We describe how peripheral clocks are synchronized by the SCN and metabolic signals. Second, we review the influence of the circadian timing system on food intake behavior, activity of the gastrointestinal system, and several aspects of glucose and lipid metabolism. Third, the circadian control of digestion and metabolism may have important implications for several aspects of food intake in humans. Therefore, we review the human literature on health aspects of meal timing, meal frequency, and breakfast consumption, and we describe the potential implications of the clock system for the timing of enteral tube feeding and parenteral nutrition. Finally, we explore the connection between type 2 diabetes and the circadian timing system. Although the past decade has provided exciting knowledge about the reciprocal relation between biological clocks and feeding/energy metabolism, future research is necessary to further elucidate this fascinating relationship in order to improve human health.

Safe and adequate placement of nasogastric tubes in the presence of a cuffed tracheostomy tube

This case report and review of the literature aims to highlight the importance of the use of a chest radiograph to check the placement of nasogastric tubes after insertion in an awake patient with an inflated cuffed tracheostomy tube regardless of an acidic pH test.

Effect of enteral versus parenteral nutrition on outcome of medical patients requiring mechanical ventilation

BACKGROUND

Early enteral nutrition (EN) in patients receiving mechanical ventilation commonly has been advocated, based mainly on studies conducted in mixed populations of trauma and surgery patients. In this study, ventilator-associated pneumonia rates and outcomes were compared in mechanically ventilated medical intensive care unit (ICU) patients receiving enteral versus parenteral nutrition.

METHODS

Patients fulfilling inclusion criteria between February 1, 2004, and January 31, 2006, were included. Patients were randomized to enteral or parenteral nutrition (PN) within 48 hours of intubation. Development of ventilator-associated pneumonia, assessment as to whether day feeding goal was attained, duration of mechanical ventilation, ICU and hospital length of stay (LOS), and mortality rates were recorded.

RESULTS

Of 249 consecutive patients receiving mechanical ventilation, 71 patients were included. Thirty (42.3%) patients received EN, and 41 (57.7%) received PN. There was no difference between groups for age, sex, body mass index, and scores on the Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II. Ventilator-associated pneumonia rate, ICU and hospital LOS, and mortality rates were similar for both groups. In the parenterally fed group, duration of mechanical ventilation was longer (p = .023), but the feeding goal was attained earlier (p = .012).

CONCLUSIONS

In mechanically ventilated patients in the medical ICU, ventilator-associated pneumonia rates, ICU and hospital lengths of stay, and ICU and hospital mortality rates of patients receiving PN are not significantly different than those in patients receiving EN, and feeding goals can more effectively be attained by PN. Yet, duration of mechanical ventilation is slightly longer in patients receiving PN.

Medication administration via enteral tubes: a survey of nurses' practices

AIM

This article is a report of a study examining the practices of acute care nurses when administering medication via enteral tubes.

BACKGROUND

Administering medication via enteral tubes is predominantly a nursing responsibility across countries. It is important to establish what nurses actually do when giving enteral medication to inform policy and continuing education development.

METHOD

In 2007, a survey was conducted using a random sample of acute care nurses at two large metropolitan hospitals in Melbourne, Australia. There were 181 Registered Nurses who participated in the study; 92 (50.8%) practised in intensive care units, 52 (28.7%) in surgical areas, 30 (16.6%) in medical areas and 7 (3.9%) were from combined medical-surgical areas. The questionnaire was developed by the researchers and a pilot study was conducted in August 2006 to test reliability, face validity and user-friendliness of the tool.

RESULTS

Nurses reported using a range of methods to verify enteral tube position prior to administering enteral medication; some were unreliable methods. A majority reported administering enteric-coated and slow or extended release forms of medication, and giving solid forms of medication when liquid form was available. Nearly all (96%) reported flushing a tube after giving medication, 28% before, and 12% always flushed between each medication.

CONCLUSION

Enteral medication administration practices are inconsistent. Some nurses are using unsafe practices and may therefore compromise patient care.

Implementation of the evidence review on best practice for confirming the correct placement of nasogastric tube in patients in an acute care hospital

BACKGROUND

Nasogastric (NG) tube is a device passed through the gastrointestinal tract of patients for the purpose of feeding, gastric decompression and medication administration. However, a small risk involved in the process is that the tube may be misplaced into the trachea during insertion or may get displaced at a later stage, leading to disastrous results. Recent adverse incidences arising out of the misplacement of NG tube raised concerns among the nursing and medical community and the Patient Safety Officer of the hospital. The Evidence Based Nursing Unit, in collaboration with some of the key nursing leaders in nursing administration, was tasked to explore and institute the current best practice in confirming the correct placement of NG tube.

AIM

The aim of this project was to institute the best practice to confirm the correct placement of NG tube in patients in an acute care hospital setting.

METHOD

The project comprised of a few stages. The first stage involved reviewing the existing recommendations and guidelines on the methods for checking correct NG tube placement. The second stage involved incorporation of the change of practice into the clinical setting. The final stage was to monitor and evaluate the impact of the new practice on the patients, nurses and other healthcare professionals.

RESULTS

Evidence search from guidelines and journals supported the test that used pH indicator instead of the litmus test. There is no evidence that supports the method of auscultation and bubbling to confirm correct NG tube placement in the absence of aspirate. Radiology remains the 'gold standard' for checking correct NG tube placement. The revised method of NG tube placement and workflow was incorporated in the revised Standard Operating Procedures. A total of 17 roadshows were conducted to create awareness regarding the new method amongst the nurses, and the implementation of the revised method and workflow was commenced on 3 November 2008. The initial audit conducted 1 month after the practice change was implemented reported 26 (50%) observations of NG tube feeding in 26 audit wards. The key areas of practice change in feeding when tube placement was confirmed (84.6%) and proper testing of aspirate (76.9%) showed good compliance.

CONCLUSION

The implementation of the change in the practice of confirming the correct placement of the NG tube in patients requires good coordination and a multidisciplinary team approach.

An integrated approach for prescribing fewer chest x-rays in the ICU

Chest x-rays (CXRs) are the main imaging tool in intensive care units (ICUs). CXRs also are associated with concerns inherent to their use, considering both healthcare organization and patient perspectives. In recent years, several studies have focussed on the feasibility of lowering the number of bedside CXRs performed in the ICU. Such a decrease may result from two independent and complementary processes: a raw reduction of CXRs due to the elimination of unnecessary investigations, and replacement of the CXR by an alternative technique. The goal of this review is to outline emblematic examples corresponding to these two processes. The first part of the review concerns the accumulation of evidence-based data for abandoning daily routine CXRs in mechanically ventilated patients and adopting an on-demand prescription strategy. The second part of the review addresses the use of alternative techniques to CXRs. This part begins with the presentation of ultrasonography or capnography combined with epigastric auscultation for ensuring the correct position of enteral feeding tubes. Ultrasonography is then also presented as an alternative to CXR for diagnosing and monitoring pneumothoraces, as well as a valuable post-procedural technique after central venous catheter insertion. The combination of the emblematic examples presented in this review supports an integrated global approach for decreasing the number of CXRs ordered in the ICU.

Colorimetric capnography, a new procedure to ensure correct feeding tube placement in the intensive care unit: an evaluation of a local protocol

PURPOSE

Radiography is the criterion standard method to ensure correct placement of a feeding tube. Recently, excellent results were reported using a combination of colorimetric capnography and epigastric auscultation, but the impact of this technique has not been studied to date. Objectives were to assess whether our local procedure, using colorimetric capnography to ensure proper feeding tube placement, improves the patient's care, satisfies nurses, and decreases costs compared with the standard procedure requiring systematic radiography.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We performed a monocentric prospective observational study in a medical intensive care unit over a 4-month period. Feeding tube placement was assessed by colorimetric capnography and epigastric auscultation. Radiography was performed when epigastric auscultation was inconclusive.

RESULTS

A total of 69 feeding tubes were placed in 44 patients. Radiography was required in 10.1% of the cases. The new procedure decreased costs ($33.37 ± 13.96 vs $45.92, P < .0001) and was less time consuming (11.6 ± 20.5 minutes vs 87.3 ± 45.2 minutes, P < .0001) than using systematic radiography. All nurses reported confidence in the procedure, which improved the organization of their care.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of colorimetric capnography and epigastric auscultation to confirm feeding tube placement improves nurse's organization of care, saves time, and decreases costs.

Can continuous pump feeding reduce the incidence of pneumonia in nasogastric tube-fed patients? A randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Continuous pump feeding is often used to reduce aspiration risk in older patients on tube feeding, but its effectiveness in preventing aspiration pneumonia is unproven. A randomized controlled trial was therefore performed to examine the effectiveness of continuous pump feeding in decreasing the incidence of pneumonia in tube-fed older hospital patients.

METHODS

One hundred and seventy eight elderly patients from three convalescence hospitals and one infirmary, on nasogastric tube feeding, were randomly assigned to have intermittent bolus (bolus) or continuous pump (pump) feeding for 4weeks. The primary outcome was the incidence of pneumonia. The secondary outcome was mortality.

RESULTS

Eighty five subjects were randomized into the pump group and 93 in the bolus group. The groups were comparable in age, nutritional and functional status, co-morbidities and history of pneumonia, except that there were more women in the pump group. Within 4weeks, 15 subjects (17.6%) in the pump group and 18 (19.4%) in the bolus group developed pneumonia. Seven subjects (8.2%) in pump group and 13 subjects (14.0%) in bolus group died. There was no significant difference in either pneumonia or death rates between the two groups.

CONCLUSION

Continuous pump feeding did not significantly affect the rates of pneumonia or mortality in tube-fed older hospital patients when compared with intermittent bolus feeding.

Hospital-acquired pneumonia: pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment

Hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP) is one of the most common causes of nosocomial infection, morbidity, and mortality in hospitalized patients. Many patient- and disease-specific factors contribute to the pathophysiology of HAP, particularly in the surgical population. Risk-factor modification and inpatient prevention strategies can have a significant impact on the incidence of HAP. While the best diagnostic strategy remains a subject of some debate, prompt and appropriate antimicrobial therapy in patients suspected of having HAP has been shown to significantly decrease mortality. Because the pathogens responsible for HAP are frequently more virulent and have greater resistance to commonly used antimicrobials than other pathogens, clinicians must have knowledge of the resistance patterns at their institutions to choose appropriate therapy.