Application of Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points system to enteral tube feeding in hospital

An HACCP system was implemented for the quality assurance of preparation, storage and delivery of enteral feeds to patients in hospital. Routine methods of feed preparation, storage and delivery to patients were studied and a flow chart was initially made. After identifying hazards, an HACCP team was assembled, a flow chart was modified and critical control points were defined using a decision tree. Control measures for each step of the process and its monitoring and corrective measures to be applied were also defined. In addition, feed samples were analysed for microbiological quality and feed storage temperatures were also recorded, before and after the implementation of the HACCP system. When the control measures were applied and monitored, the hazard was reduced. Bacterial counts in feed were reduced from 10(5) cfu mL(-1) to < 10(1) cfu mL(-1). The results show that contamination of enteral feed may be reduced or eliminated if a systematic approach such as HACCP is applied effectively.