Implementation of a gastrostomy care bundle reduces dislodgements and length of stay

PURPOSE: Pediatric gastrostomy tubes (G-tubes) are associated with considerable utilization of healthcare resources. G-tube dislodgement can result in tract disruption and abdominal sepsis. We aimed to reduce early G-tube dislodgement by 25%. METHODS: An interdisciplinary team convened to identify key drivers of G-tube dislodgement and implement initiatives to reduce this complication. A G-tube care bundle was implemented in 2018. Rates of early G-tube dislodgement (within 90 days of insertion) were tracked. 15 months of cases after bundle implementation were compared to 20 months of cases before implementation. Length of stay (LOS, balancing measure) and bundle compliance (process measure) were tracked. RESULTS: G-tube dislodgements decreased 47% after bundle implementation. Overall, dislodgements after G-tube insertion decreased from 43% to 19% dislodgements per tube inserted, p = 0.004. Reductions were observed for dislodgements occurring in both the inpatient (14% vs. 1.5%) and outpatient (29% vs. 18%) settings. Median LOS was reduced from 15.3 to 7.1 days following implementation, p = 0.004. Process measures demonstrated 75% or greater compliance one year after implementation. CONCLUSION: An interdisciplinary team using quality improvement science methodology can significantly reduce G-tube dislodgement and improve value after pediatric gastrostomy tube insertion. TYPE OF STUDY: Longitudinal cohort study. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: III