Tube securement: Preventing tube-related complications and increasing patient comfort

A system-wide deficit in tube management has been identified.  Opportunities to secure tubes exist in the OR, interventional radiology, endoscopy, acute care, and outpatient areas.  Tubes that have been identified as having options for securement include G-tubes, J-tubes and nasogastric tubes; biliary tubes; nephrostomy tubes; and surgical drains.  The benefits of tube securement are decrease of complications (migration, enlargement of insertion site, skin erosion and leakage) and related increase in patient comfort. We will determine options available in-system for tube securement and present education to involved departments regarding application and care of securement devices as well as benefits gained from appropriate tube securement (patient comfort and decrease in tube related complications).  Alternative commercially available devices will be examined for possible recommendation as additions to our wound care formulary.