First total closed-loop enteral feeding system introduced to SMHS

Rockingham General Hospital (RGH) is the first South Metropolitan Health Service (SMHS) hospital to introduce a total closed-loop enteral feeding system in its Intensive Care Unit (ICU), improving patient safety and supporting sustainability efforts.

The new system, which is now standard practice in the ICU, delivers nutrition from a pre-filled, sterile container that connects directly to the feeding set and tube, without needing to be opened or decanted.

This helps maintain a sterile fluid path, reducing the risk of contamination and infection. It is especially important in ICU settings where patients are most vulnerable.

The change was prompted by a WA-wide shortage of feed and flush bags.

In response, staff had to use feed-only bags, which required manual water flushes.

This added pressure to nursing teams and took time away from other aspects of patient centred care.

Thanks to the efforts of Nurse Unit Manager (NUM), Adele King, and acting NUM Jacky Lurcook, new enteral feed bags have been introduced.

The bags feature a flush bag, and a spike set with a screw cap that connects directly to the feed container.

RGH dietitians provided education to nursing staff on how to use the new system.

The change has been in place for about a month, and nursing feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

Staff, like RGH ICU Head of Department, Ravi Sonawane, have found the closed-loop system more convenient and efficient.

 “This system is a huge step forward for patient safety,” said Ravi,

“It reduces the risk of infection and gives us more time to focus on other aspects of care.

"It’s made a real difference in our daily workflow.”

Beyond improving patient care, the system is also helping the hospital save money and reduce its environmental footprint.

The enteral feed containers can now be hung for 24 hours, compared to just 4 hours when feeds were decanted, waste is reduced, and preparation errors are less likely.

This thoughtful change is a great example of how innovation, teamwork and adaptability allow RGH staff to provide exceptional patient care.

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