Nurses' prioritization of enteral nutrition in intensive care units: a national survey

ConclusionRespondents relied on their clinical judgement to inform decisions in relation to enteral nutrition in critically ill patients. Most respondents agreed that enteral nutrition was an important aspect of patient care, but acknowledged that other aspects of care were prioritized more highly. Despite this, some delays to enteral nutrition were perceived to be avoidable, and nurses recognized a need to advocate on the patient's behalf to increase the visibility of enteral nutrition. Relevance to clinical practiceThe findings of this study demonstrate that enteral nutrition is often prioritized lower than other competing care needs in the critically ill patient. Given the importance of enteral nutrition to patient recovery, changes to clinical practice to improve enteral nutrition management are necessary.
Source: Nursing in Critical Care - Category: Nursing Authors: Tags: Research Source Type: research