Abstract
Previous trials have measured the flow rate and force of new connectors (International Organization for Standardization [ISO] 80369-3 compliant connectors) versus existing connectors (legacy feeding devices); however, we were not able to find data on time-lag and differences in the subjective usability by caregivers or the burden of syringe feeding. Thus, we performed a trial of syringe feeding using a RACOL-NF (RACOL-NF Semi-Solid for Enteral Use). The study population included 40 clinicians at 5 facilities. We measured the time clinicians spent on all steps of feeding 300 kcal-RACOL-NF with both the existing and new devices, and asked them to evaluate the subjective usability and burden using a visual analogue scale (VAS). To analyze the subjective burden, we divided feeding actions into 4 steps (filling [1st], attaching the syringe to the connector [2nd], administration [3rd], and detaching the syringe from the connector [4th]) for existing devices. For new devices included 2 additional steps (attachment and detachment of the adaptor for semi-solid nutrient filling). The median time for all feeding steps (all values shown as existing vs. new) was 282 s vs. 365 s (increased by 1.30±0.20 times, p<0.01). The median VAS value for usability was 91.5 mm vs. 42.0 mm (p<0.01). The median VAS values for the burden of using the respective devices were as follows: 1st: 20.5 mm vs. 50.0mm (p<0.01); 2nd: 6.0 mm vs. 67.5mm (p<0.01); 3rd: 14.5 mm vs. 20.0 mm (p<0.05); 4th: 7.5 mm vs. 68.0 mm (p<0.01); total: 16.5 mm vs. 66.0 mm (p<0.01), respectively. Limited to the burden of the new devices, the VAS values of the 4th and 2nd steps were higher, while the VAS value of the 3rd step was lower. Transitioning to new connectors may cost time and impose a burden on clinicians.
