Reducing bacterial contamination of enteral feeds
a The Children's Hospital, Birmingham, b Institute of Child Health, University of Birmingham, c Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology,
University of Strathclyde, Glasgow
Correspondence to: C J Patchell, Dietetic Department, Birmingham Children's Hospital NHS Trust, Ladywood Middleway, Ladywood, Birmingham B16 8ET
Accepted 24
September 1997
OBJECTIVE
It has previously been shown that
microbial contamination of enteral feeds given to children in hospital
and at home is common. This study therefore examined the effects of
improvements in the enteral feeding protocol, coupled with an intensive
staff training programme, on bacterial contamination.
METHODSThe enteral feeding protocol was
modified by: priming the feeding set on an alcohol treated metal tray,
spraying the bottle opener and top with 70% alcohol, wearing
non-sterile disposable gloves, and filling the feeding reservoir with
feed for up to 24 hours' use rather than only four hours. Daily feeds
samples were collected from 16 inpatients and home patients on enteral nutrition at the start and end of feeding. Seventy seven samples were
cultured. Results were compared with previously published control data.
RESULTSEnteral feed contamination rates were
reduced significantly from 62% to 6% of feeds given at home
(p < 0.001), and from 45% to 4% of feeds given in hospital
(p < 0.001).
CONCLUSIONSThis study highlights the
importance of using an appropriate enteral feeding protocol, and of
regular staff training in reducing contamination rates of enteral feeds
to an acceptable level.
© 1998 by Archives of Disease in Childhood
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