A Quasi-Experimental Study on the Impact of a Nasogastric Tube Placement Educational Program on Pediatric Nurses' Knowledge and Practices.

BACKGROUND

Nasogastric tube (NGT) feeding is the preferred method of delivering nutrients to children who cannot tolerate oral feeding and medication. However, there are various risks associated with NGT misplacement.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of a structured educational program on pediatric nurses' knowledge and practice in NGT placement.

METHODS

This quasi-experimental study was conducted among 130 nurses in two hospitals in Saudi Arabia. Pretest and posttest data were collected using a questionnaire and an observational checklist. The educational program included theoretical and practical sessions on the recommended best practices for NGT placement and location verification in pediatric patients.

RESULTS

Prior to the intervention, more than half (53.1%) had unsatisfactory knowledge, and 59.5% exhibited incompetent practice regarding NGT placement. Significant improvements were observed following the educational program. Postintervention, 90% of the nurses demonstrated satisfactory knowledge, and 88.5% exhibited competent practice ( < 0.01). A strong positive correlation was found between knowledge and practice levels both before and after the intervention ( < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The educational program on NGT placement significantly improved pediatric nurses' knowledge and promoted best practices, thereby increasing patient safety. It is recommended that structured training and simulation-based refreshers be incorporated into continuing nursing education to sustain safe and effective NGT practice.