title: Nasogastric tube feeding--which syringe size produces lower pressure and is safest to use?
abstract: BACKGROUND
  For this research, we worked on the hypothesis that larger syringe sizes would not generate greater pressures (negative or positive) than smaller ones. This contradicts current practice and theory, which states that larger syringes produce lower pressures and are safer.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  To establish the most appropriate syringe size in a laboratory experiment.
  
  
  METHODS
  We attached a manometer to a syringe with and without nasogastric tubes and measured negative pressures generated when aspirating, and positive pressures generated when injecting fluids.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The findings suggest that smaller syringes generate lower pressures; further research is needed to confirm this.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  If we are correct there is a patient safetyissue, which must be addressed urgently. Also, smaller syringes may lead to significant cost savings.
authors.affiliation: Paediatric Unit, Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust.
authors.forename: Tony
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Knox
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Davie
mesh_terms: D004750:Enteral Nutrition / Q000295:instrumentation*; D004869:Equipment Safety; D006801:Humans; D007441:Intubation, Gastrointestinal / Q000295:instrumentation*; D008365:Manometry; D011312:Pressure; D013594:Syringes