Eliminating Routine Evaluation of Gastric Residuals in the NICU

Abstract

Although routine evaluation of gastric content was a former standard of care in neonatal nursing as a measure of feeding tolerance, recent studies demonstrate little evidence to support the practice. It delays the achievement of full enteral feedings and increases the threat of poor postnatal growth and long-term outcomes. At a 25-bed neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), the nursing staff evaluate gastric residual volume (GRV) in over 85% of the gavage feedings given to preterm neonates.The purpose of this project aimed to measure the effect of implementing an updated feeding policy via a continuing professional development (CPD) activity and its effect on the frequency of evaluation of GRV. The project also measured the effect on hours to full enteral feeding and days required to regain birth weight. A quasi-experimental design was utilized. The project included all the nurses (n = 45) caring for the population of interest (neonates