Nurses' Performance Regarding Nasogastric Tube Feeding in Intensive Care Units

Abstract

Background: Nasogastric tube (NGT) feeding is a common practice in Intensive care Units(ICUs). The aim of study was to assess nurses' performance regarding nasogastric tubefeeding in Intensive Care Units. Subjects and methods: A descriptive correlation design wasused in this study. All nurses (100) in all ICUs at Zagazig University Hospitals wereincluded. Two tools were used for collecting data, 1) questionnaire sheet to collect knowledgeabout socio-demographic characteristics of study nurses and questions to assess nurses'knowledge regarding nasogastric tube and feeding administration. 2) Observational checklistto assess nurses' practice regarding NGT insertion and feeding administration. Results: thestudy finding revealed that there was a statistical significant relation between total knowledgeand total practice concluded that nurses had unsatisfactory level of knowledge about NGTinsertion and feeding, and their level of practice was unsatisfactory. It can be concluded thatthe majority of nurses in intended ICUs did not apply the most recommended nursingpractices regarding nasogastric tube insertion and feeding administration. It is recommendedto provide a training program for all nurses who provide care to critically ill patients in ICUs,periodic evaluation of nurses' practice.