Conclusion
The changes we have instituted have certainly
taken us in the right direction,
although there is some way to go before we
have a completely safe environment for the
placement of NG feeding tubes.
For example, poor uptake of the NG
feeding tube sticker continues to be a specific
challenge and continual reliance on
X-ray imaging rather than initial aspirate
pH testing as first line in a few areas will
require further work to address.
However, our trust will endeavour to
use its multifaceted and multidisciplinary
approach to achieve our aim of a safe environment
for NG tube placement.
Changing culture to improve safety
takes time, resources and, above all, enthusiasm
but, in the end, the result is well
worth attaining: reduced harm and better
care for all our patients