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PICOT: Does a modified taping method for nasogastric tubes decrease likelihood of developing tube-related skin breakdown?
Purpose: The purpose of this study is to see if the implementation of a new nasogastric tube taping method will decrease the incidence of skin breakdown on all hospitalized patients with NGT as reflected on the HAPI monthly data collected.
Background: As with other hospitals in the nation, medical device related skin breakdown, specifically from NGT securement, is a challenge at a Level 1 Trauma Center in West Texas. In 2015, 20% of the total medical device related pressure injury was due to NGTs as shown by the total HAPI data report of 2015. This prompted the adoption of a new taping method as reflected through hospital policy change, with the goal to decrease the incidence or eliminate NGT related skin breakdown.
Intervention: In March, 2016, the Pressure Ulcer Reduction Committee collaborated about NGT securement after a concern was raised regarding an increasing number of NGT related HAPIs. A new method from AACN’s Webinar, titled Saving Face, was adopted and step by step instructions were disseminated to licensed staff through video presentation. The hospital policy on Gastric Tube Management and Care were updated and made securement using the new process mandatory.
Method: Monthly HAPI data specific to NGT related pressure ulcer from 2015 to 2016 were compared. Result obtained were used to show the efficacy of the new taping method after implementation.
Result: Over the 12 month reporting post- implementation, HAPI rate related to NGT securement decreased to zero.
Implication to Nursing: Inclusion of clinical nurses provides opportunity to find solutions to patient care needs.
Learning objectives: 1. Explain the effects of NGT taping modification with regards to pressure injury prevention.
- Describe the result of applying new process in relation to improving patient outcome.