Objective: The purpose ofthis study is to determine whether Staphylococcus aureus(S. aureus)can be removed completely from the inner surface of the enteral nutrition tubes using sterilized water.
Methods: A bacterial solution of S. aureus in saline was prepared. The enteral nutrition tubes were later soaked in this solution for 1 hour. After the solution was drained, bacterial count ofthe tube was determined. The inner surfaces ofthe tubes were later flushed 10 times with sterilized water. The bacterial load of the tubes was determined after flushing. After 18 hours, the viable bacteria on the insides of the tubes were enumerated.
Results: One hour after the initial inoculation, 62.6±26.0% oft he S. aureus survived. Some bacteria remained viable on the tubes after 10 flushes with sterilized water. Eighteen hours after the flushes, viable bacteria could be detected on the inside ofthe tubes.
Conclusion: To ensure the safe use ofthe enteral nutrition tubes, it is important not to recycle the tubes or to disinfect the tubes after every meal.