Caring for children and young people in the community receiving
enteral tube feeding
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.
Published Date: 25 September 2007
