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Inexpensive, safe and simple nasoenteral intubation--an alternative for the cost conscious
Insights
This study demonstrates that inexpensive pediatric feeding tubes and reusable guide wires are effective for nasoenteral feeding. This approach offers significant cost savings compared to traditional methods, making it a viable alternative.
Area of Science:
- Medical Devices
- Gastroenterology
- Pediatric Care
Background:
- Nasoenteral feeding tubes are widely used but expensive.
- Current tubes often feature weighted tips, contributing to high costs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of using inexpensive pediatric feeding tubes with reusable guide wires for nasoenteral feeding.
- To determine if weighted tips are essential for duodenal tube passage.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 21 patients utilized low-cost polyvinyl pediatric feeding tubes and reusable guide wires.
- Tube placement into the duodenum and patency were monitored.
- Nursing care and patient cooperation were assessed as factors.
Main Results:
- 19 out of 27 tubes successfully passed into the duodenum without weighted tips.
- Tubes remained in place and patent for up to 71 days with proper care.
- Significant cost savings of $6.25-$16.55 per tube were achieved.
Conclusions:
- Inexpensive pediatric feeding tubes with reusable guide wires are a safe and effective alternative for nasoenteral feeding.
- Weighted tips are not necessary for successful duodenal tube placement.
- This method presents a significant cost-conscious option for clinical practice.
Abstract:
The efficacy and safety of nasoenteral feedings via small bore, flexible tubes have been extensively studied and reported. Most of the tubes currently used have similar characteristics including a high price ($7.00-$17.30 per tube). Our study using inexpensive ($0.55 each), polyvinyl pediatric feeding tubes and reusable guide wires in 21 patients shows that a weighted tip is not necessary for the passage of tubes into the duodenum (19/27 tubes passed) and that with proper nursing care and patient cooperation, the tubes can remain in place and patent for periods up to 71 days. The cost savings using the ubiquitous pediatric feeding tube and a reusable guide wire are significant (between $6.25 and $16.55 per tube used) and make this a more cost conscious alternative.