Development, implementation, and evaluation of a state-wide gastrostomy training program: A proposed education model

Patients receiving home enteral tube feeding have a high risk of complications and readmission to hospital. Enteral nutrition training for health professionals is essential but often not included in basic training curricula. This paper aims to (i) outline the development of a state-wide gastrostomy training program and (ii) undertake a 7-year evaluation of the program.

A state-wide gastrostomy education and training program was developed and implemented using a spiral learning model, stakeholder engagement, review of the literature, and consumer involvement. Medico-legal consideration was given to credentialing, competencies, and extended scope of practice. Direct outcomes were evaluated using a RE-AIM framework.

In the 7 years since starting the program 819 clinicians have completed all online modules including the evaluation, and 178 and 42 clinicians have participated in workshop 1 (gastrostomy care and management) and workshop 2 (gastrostomy removal and replacement), respectively. Additionally, 85 extended care paramedic trainees have participated in the program. Average pre-post measures of knowledge and confidence improved 11% and 23%, respectively, across all aspects of the program.

The development of a state-wide gastrostomy education and training program allowed health professionals to gain expertise in the specialty area of gastrostomy care to support consistent safe practice. Over the 7 years the program has been functional it has expanded to include regional and ambulance services. There have also been limitations and learnings along the way. The model used for this program may allow others insight into the developing future programs.