SUN-PP263: Assessment of the Enteral Nutrition Protocol

nasogastric tube material, and the effectiveness of flushing to prevent blockages, using both sterile water and tap water. Culturable cells were quantified by colony forming units, and bacterial viability was measured by cell elongation. In addition, sections of inoculated nasogastric feeding tube were examined by microscopy. Results: The findings have shown bacterial colonisation is present within the lumen of nasogastric tubes used by adults. The speed of bacterial attachment can be as little as 15 minutes. There appears to be no notable benefit to flushing nasogastric tubes with sterile water as opposed to tap water. Conclusion: The laboratory studies have demonstrated bacterial colonisation on nasogastric tube lumen walls over a 24 hour period in the laboratory setting. The presence of bacteria in this environment may have the potential to interrupt flow through the lumen and contribute to blockage development. Future studies will look at whether medication and feed regimen have an effect on the extent of bacteria present and the potential rates of occlusion. Disclosure of Interest: None declared