Some may consider feeding tubes (tubes) merely a means of delivering enteral nutrition; however, these life-sustaining tubes also supply medications and hydration to patients unable to ingest them orally. With reported clogging rates ranging from 9-35%, these clogs result in the interruption of patients’ nutrition and medication regimens and the clinical impact can add up over time. This session outlines the causes of tube clogs or occlusions, proper techniques when it comes to maintaining tube patency, clog prevention strategies, and the pros and cons to various tube declogging approaches.
Credits: 1 CEU for SNF
Presenters:
Maureen L. Mulvihill, TubeClear Care of Actuated Medical Inc.
Abigail DeLellis, TubeClear Care of Actuated Medical Inc.
Paula Mulhall, TubeClear Care of Actuated Medical Inc.
