Enteral Tube Feeding Best Practice Statement, September 2007 (PDF, 281K, 41secs)
About this publication
This statement specifically addresses issues in nasogastric, gastrostomy and jejunal feeding. The importance of communication and sharing of information between local and regional services is key to ensuring best
practice for these children and young people and this is reflected throughout the statement. Child/young person-centred care, along with the need to involve and inform parents/carers, educational and social services in treatment is also highlighted in the statement. Children’s information should be appropriate to their age and level of understanding.
Background information
This best practice statement was originally developed in 2003 by the Community Children’s Nursing Network supported by the Nursing and Midwifery Practice Development Unit. The aim of the statement is to offer guidance to nurses, allied health professionals, midwives, and health visitors on best practice relating to the care of children/young people in the community receiving enteral tube feeding. The statement was reviewed and updated in 2007 by a wider group including specialist nurses and dietitians.
In addition to the review process, an audit tool has been developed to support practitioners/organisations wishing to audit their practice.
About Best Practice Statements
A series of best practice statements has been produced within the Practice Development Unit of NHS QIS, designed to offer guidance on best and achievable practice in a specific area of care. These statements
reflect the current emphasis on delivering care that is patient-centred, cost-effective and fair. They reflect the commitment of NHS QIS to sharing local excellence at a national level.
- Best practice statements are produced by a systematic process, underpinned by a number of key principles:
- They are intended to guide practice and promote a consistent, cohesive and achievable approach to care. Their aims are realistic but challenging.
- They are primarily intended for use by registered nurses, midwives, allied health professionals, and the staff who support them.
- They are developed where variation in practice exists and seek to establish an agreed approach for practitioners.
- Responsibility for implementation of these statements rests at local level.
Other information available
- Key Findings Report from research into the information and advice available to parents and carers
- Original 2003 Best Practice Statement
Future Work
Best practice statements are reviewed, and, if necessary, updated after 3 years in order to ensure the statements continue to reflect current thinking with regard to best practice.
Equality & Diversity
NHS QIS is committed to equality and diversity. This document, and the research on which it is based, have been assessed for any likely impact on the six equality groups defined by age, gender, race/ethnicity, religion/faith, disability and sexual orientation. For a summary of the equality and diversity impact assessment, please see here
