No adverse events occurred with the implementation of bedside feeding tube placement using an ETPD. In addition, SBFT placement with an ETPD by designated ICU RD/RN teams resulted in lower x-ray costs and more timely initiation of enteral feedings compared with blind placement.

No abstract

Although radiologic confirmation of tube placement remains the "gold standard," there is growing evidence that pH testing of feeding-tube aspirates can reduce (although not totally eliminate) reliance on x-rays used for this purpose. This article describes that evidence and tells how it was obtained. Reducing the number of x-rays needed to confirm tube position can have far-reaching financial benefits.

No abstract