Verification of inefficacy of the glucose method in detecting aspiration associated with tube feedings
Metheny, N.A.; Dahms, T.E.; Stewart, B.J.; Stone, K.S.; Frank, P.A.; Clouse, R.E.
Medsurg Nursing Official Journal of the Academy of Medical-Surgical Nurses 14(2): 112-119; 121; Discussion 120
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 1092-0811 PMID: 15916266 Document Number: 594482
While some authors believe that testing for glucose in suctioned tracheal secretions can be used to detect aspiration of glucose-containing formula, others disagree. Previous evaluative studies of the glucose method's efficacy have lacked adequate statistical power and a gold standard for aspiration. In this animal study, a gold standard for aspiration was used and possessed sufficient statistical power to address the glucose method's sensitivity and specificity. As such, the results from the study provide the clinician with useful data to decide if the glucose method is appropriate for use in clinical settings.