Postpyloric feeding tube placement at the bedside: Complication rate and impact on length of stay

Abstract

Background: Postpyloric feeding tube (PPFT) placement is essential for the ongoing nutrition care of critically ill children requiring noninvasive and invasive ventilation. PPFTs are placed by a variety of providers, including advanced practice nurses (APNs), surgeons, gastroenterologists, and radiologists. Complication rates, time to enteral nutrition (EN) following placement, and association with length of stay (LOS) have not been well documented. Methods: A query of the electronic medical record identified patients in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) in whom PPFTs were placed. A retrospective chart review was performed to identify patient demographics; PPFT placement provider, indication, and duration; PICU LOS; hospital LOS; and patient pediatric risk of mortality (PRISM) scores. Results: A total of 452 PPFTs were placed in 346 patients, with 318 placed by APNs. There was only one complication in 452 placed PPFTs. PRISM scores between patient groups for APN-placed PPFTs and non-APN–placed PPFTs were not significantly different. Mean time from hospital admission to PPFT placement was 1.5 days (APN) to 2.0 days (non-APN) (P