Factors Influencing Management of Enteral Nutrition Among Nurses in Health Facilities of Kisumu County, Kenya

Abstract

Context: Enteral Nutrition (EN) is a feeding method through the gastrointestinal tract used in patients whose oral intake is not possible. Over 3 million people receive EN globally annually. Nurses play a key role in EN, but despite the progress, studies have demonstrated approaches that are not in line with approved standards.

Aim: To evaluate factors influencing management of enteral nutrition among nurses in health facilities of Kisumu County.

Methods: A cross-sectional, analytical study was conducted in two government hospitals and two private hospitals in Kisumu County, namely, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital, Kisumu County Referral Hospital, Aga Khan Hospital, and Avenue Hospital. A total of 135 participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Twelve key informants were interviewed. Data collection tools included a structured self-administered questionnaire, a nurses' practice observation checklist, and an interview guide.

Results: Most of the participants were females (68.2%) and 31.8% males, with a mean age of 34.2±8.4. The use of well-displayed guidelines influences EN (p-value 0.03). Nurses' level of knowledge influences EN, though with minimal significance. The average total knowledge score was 80.7%. Total nurses’ performance shows that 85.2% had a satisfactory performance level.

Conclusion: EN is an essential intervention in the healing process and can be influenced by well-displayed guidelines. The findings indicated that nurses' knowledge can influence the management of enteral nutrition. The study recommends that nurses should focus on adhering to the recommended guidelines on EN that are well displayed, and they should be knowledgeable and well-informed on updates on EN.