NG Tube Complications-Tuesday Tube Facts

Jul 27, 2021 | Tuesday Tube Facts

According to recent reviews of tube insertions, the risk of misplacing an NG tube into the airway may reach 2% or higher when tubes are inserted blindly.[1]

References:

Powers, J, Brown, B, Lyman, B, et al. Development of a competency model for placement and verification of nasogastric and nasoenteric feeding tubes for adult hospitalized patients. Nutr. Clin. Pract. 2021; 36: 517– 533. https://doi.org/10.1002/ncp.10671

Acidic environments and clog rates-Tuesday Tube Facts

Jul 21, 2021 | Tuesday Tube Facts

Did you know…?

It has been observed that feeding tubes positioned in the highly acidic environment (e.g., stomach) may clog more readily than those positioned in the more neutral pH environment (e.g., small bowel).[1]

References:

Boullata, Joseph I., et al. “ASPEN Safe Practices for Enteral Nutrition Therapy.” Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, vol. 41, no. 1, 2016, pp. 15–103., doi:10.1177/0148607116673053.

Sugar in Liquid Medications-Tuesday Tube Facts

Jul 13, 2021 | Tuesday Tube Facts

Did you know…?

Many liquid medications contain sugars or sugar alcohols (e.g., sorbitol) that are used to enhance the taste. The sugars and sugar alcohols can increase osmolality, which can cause tube clogging.[1]

References:

Marilyn Schallom. How to recognize, prevent, and troubleshoot mechanical complications of enteral feeding tubes. MyAmericanNurse, Feb 2016. https://www.myamericannurse.com/recognize-prevent-troubleshoot-mechanical-complications-enteral-feeding-tubes/.

Feeding Tube Interruptions in Adults-Tuesday Tube Facts

Jul 7, 2021 | Tuesday Tube Facts

Did you know…?

For critically ill adults, it has been reported that feedings are interrupted 5 or more hours per patient per day.[1]

References:

Melissa L. Stewart. Interruptions in enteral nutrition delivery in critically ill patients and recommendations for clinical practice. CriticalCareNurse, Aug 2014.