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Multidisciplinary evaluation of a critical care enteral feeding algorithm
Nutrition & Dietetics, 06/29/2012
Reeves A et al. – Evaluation of the new feeding algorithm indicated that it was well accepted by users, ensured a consistent approach to enteral feeding delivery and enabled feeding to start earlier within an intensive care unit.
Methods- Semistructured interviews were conducted with eight nurses, three doctors and three dietitians, to gauge their attitudes towards usefulness of the algorithm.
- Data on energy and protein intakes was collected for 108 patients using nursing observation records of volume of feed delivered with deductions for discarded aspirates.
- Positive feedback on usability of the algorithm was given by all interview participants.
- Common themes from the interviews were that the algorithm ‘enabled feeding to start earlier’, ‘was simple to use’ and ‘ensured consistency of approach’.
- Greater than 80% of estimated nutritional targets were achieved, and enteral feeding commenced on average within 8 hours.
