Nursing care of patients with nasogastric feeding tubes

Nasogastric tubes are commonly used for patients as a short-term method of providing continuous, pre-packed liquid feed. In order to explore how evidence-based practice is being incorporated into care, we conducted a survey investigating the views and practices of nutrition specialist nurses in acute trusts across the UK. A postal questionnaire comprising 35 questions considered the role of the nutrition specialist nurse, care of patients with nasogastric tubes, and training and education of nurses in the care of these patients. Results of this small study indicate differences in the education and practice of nursing care for patients with nasogastric tubes. Therefore, it is vital that evidence and good practice is disseminated both locally and nationally by benchmarking practice and by sharing knowledge and experiences in both journals and conferences. Nurses also need support in practising their skills to ensure they feel confident in caring for patients with nasogastric tubes.