DEVELOPMENT OF GUIDELINES FOR TUBE FEEDING IN CRITICALLY ILL PATIENTS AT RATCHABURI HOSPITAL BY THE METHOD OF MEASURING THE RESIDUAL VOLUME IN THE STOMACH (GASTRIC CONTENT)

Abstract

This research and development study aimed to develop a guideline for tube feeding in critically ill patients at Ratchaburi Hospital by the method of measuring the residual volume in the stomach (Gastric content), and to examine an effectiveness of a guideline. The research design was employed in 6 phases, which were 1) assessing of the current situation; 2) developing a guideline for tube feeding; 3) Implement guideline and evaluate; 4) Improve a guideline; 5) A guideline was reused and evaluated and 6) confirming a guideline through connoisseurship. The quality-validated research instruments were test, skill assessment form, tube feeding guideline, satisfaction questionnaire, and surveillance record form. Data were collected using document review, focus group, observation, and test. Data were analyzed using frequency, percentage, pair t-test and content analysis. Results revealed that a guideline for tube feeding in critically ill patients at Ratchaburi Hospital by the method of measuring the residual volume in the stomach (Gastric content) composed of 6 aspects, which were 1) Situation 2) Assessment 3) Intervention 4) Prevention 5) Information record and 6) Nutrition. Nurses had significantly higher mean score of knowledge and tube feeding skills (p<0.05). Their mean score of satisfaction were 4.35 (  = 4.35, SD = 0.51). Patient’s relatives satisfied were 4.23 (  = 4.23, SD = 0.52). This guideline can used with patients who need to be properly feed through a tube according to nursing standard.