Reducing bacterial contamination of enteral feeds

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 eVects of improvements in the enteral feeding protocol, coupled with an intensive staV training programme, on bacterial contamination. Methods—The 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 com-pared with previously published control data. Results—Enteral 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 hos-pital (p < 0.001). Conclusions—This study highlights the importance of using an appropriate en-teral feeding protocol, and of regular staV training in reducing contamination rates of enteral feeds to an acceptable level