Development of a Convenient Nasogastric Drainage Bag, Si Sa Ket Hospital

Abstract

Nasogastric (NG) drainage plastic bags often have problems with bad odor and leakage causing discomfort among pediatric patients and limiting participation of them in recreational activities. Furthermore, it is quite difficult to measure the amount of gastrcit drainage due to wrinkle or folding of the bags, resulting in the records of inconsistent amount of the fluid. To address the problems, the author had developed a model of new NG drainage bags that are more convenient to use. The objective of this study was to test the feasibility of the use of this convenient NG bags as well as to assess the satisfaction of patients, relatives and medical personnel toward the utilization. The study was conducted during October 2012-March 2013 among 20 pediatric patients who were on NG tube. Data were collected by through a set of questionnaire, and were analyzed by using frequency and percentage. It was found that the convenient NG bags were effective. There was no leakage detected. The patients were able and comfortable to join recreational activities. Consistent measurement of gastrict content (100.0%) was also obtained. Ninty five percent of patients and relatives and 90.0% of personnel were satisfied with the use of the bags. However, the initial model of the bags was transparent and, as a result, not so aesthetic. This was managed by putting each plastic bag into an outer bag made of cloth. This new development had gain even more satisfaction among all patients and their relatives. The only limitaion of these convenient bags was the smaller size of NG tube (number 8) when compared to the connecting hole of the bag, and thus, several layers of sealing tape were needed causing some difficulty in subsequent removal of the bag. In additon, each NG tube was also too short which restricted patient’s movement. Further improvement of the convenient bags was recommended.