Impact of viscosity on tube clogging incidence in straight vs right‐angle tube feeding extension sets: An in vitro study
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Blenderized tube feeding (BTF) use has increased in patient populations requiring enteral nutrition support, and healthcare providers need to be well-informed on the nuances of BTF-including administration. Patients and caregivers frequently prefer right-angle extension sets but are encouraged to use straight sets to avoid a potential clog at the right angle. The purpose of this study was to compare clog occurrences in straight and right-angle extension tubes between standard commercial formula (SCF) and all viscosity levels of BTF. The accuracy of formula volume delivered was also explored. METHODS: A home-prepared and a commercial product were manipulated such that all four viscosity levels were achieved and delivered by pump and syringe through right-angle and straight extension sets in mock tube feedings. A comparison SCF was also delivered via pump without adjusting the viscosity. All 1-h feedings were observed for any clogs at the right-angle or in the straight extension set. RESULTS: No clogs were observed at any viscosity level in pump delivery for right-angle or straight extension sets. One clog was observed in a single-observation syringe feeding. The volume delivered was more consistent at all viscosity levels through the right-angle sets, compared with straight set tubes delivering the 200-ml volume in 1 h. CONCLUSION: Patient preference for right-angle extension sets may be honored for BTF delivered via new-generation feeding pumps.
Source: Nutrition in Clinical Practice
DOI: 10.1002/ncp.70072
Authors: Holly Carter, Shawna Walker, Amy Y. Spurlock, Teresa W. Johnson
Institutions: Troy University, Boise State University
Language: English
Subfield: Nutrition and Dietetics
Field: Nursing
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4416673937