Aseptic techniques used to administer parenteral nutrition and home parenteral nutrition at intestinal failure centres.

Abstract

Background: Aseptic technique during the administration of parenteral nutrition/home parenteral nutrition (PN/HPN) errs towards poorly described traditional aseptic/sterile approaches. This study aimed to identify procedures and the evidence underpinning practice in intestinal failure centres.

Method: A novel approach was taken using documentary analysis. PN/HPN administration procedures used at NHS England-commissioned intestinal failure centres were requested by email.

Results: The response rate was 57%, and 16 documents were analysed. Techniques were described as aseptic technique (n=2), aseptic non-touch technique (n=6) or sterile aseptic non-touch technique (n=1) or were not named (n=7). Sterile gloves were used in 13 (81%) procedures described and non-sterile gloves in 3 (19%). A sterile field was recommended in most procedures (94%). Scrub time of the hub was not stipulated in 7 (44%) procedures. Few documents included relevant citations or evidence.

Conclusion: There is variation in aseptic techniques used to administer PN/HPN in intestinal failure centres with no clear evidence base. Nurses need to review procedures to ensure practice is evidence based and environmentally sustainable.