Nasogastric tube feeding - which syringe size produces lower pressure and is safest to use?

Knox, Tony MA, PGCE, RSCN, RNT, RGN, ENB
Davie, John NHC

Tony Knox, MA, PGCE, Cert Prof Practice, RSCN, RNT, RGN, ENB 920, is practice educator - paediatrics, Paediatric Unit; John Davie, HNC Electronics Engineering, is clinical technologist, Medical Engineering Department; both at Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust.

Nursing Times 105(27):p 24-26, July 14, 2009.

ABSTRACT

Background

For this research, we worked on the hypothesis that larger syringe sizes would not generate greater pressures (negative or positive) than smaller ones. This contradicts current practice and theory, which states that larger syringes produce lower pressures and are safer.

Aim

To establish the most appropriate syringe size in a laboratory experiment.

Method

We attached a manometer to a syringe with and without nasogastric tubes and measured negative pressures generated when aspirating, and positive pressures generated when injecting fluids.

Results

The findings suggest that smaller syringes generate lower pressures; further research is needed to confirm this.

Conclusion

If we are correct there is a patient safety issue, which must be addressed urgently. Also, smaller syringes may lead to significant cost savings.