A multidisciplinary team of partners are collaborating to understand the value gained from using the innovative NGPOD testing device for patients who need nasogastric feeding tubes. These are used when patients cannot swallow food, liquids or medication
Testing is vital as an incorrectly placed tube can have negative consequences. However, the current testing regime can be time-consuming, requiring interpretation of a pH measurement, with the patient also potentially requiring an X-Ray to confirm results.
NGPOD Global Ltd has developed NGPOD to help to eliminate these challenges. This technology uses flexible sensors inserted into the nasogastric tube for determining safe pH level quickly and accurately and whether nasogastric feeding can begin.
NGPOD Global is funding the service evaluation, supplying the devices and delivering training to healthcare staff at Swansea Bay University Health Board and Hywel Dda University Health Board, where the devices will be trialled at their secondary care stroke wards.
Life Sciences Hub Wales have been providing project development, stakeholder engagement and communications support, with TriTech set to design, deliver and write up the final evaluation using a Value-Based Health Care analysis.
For more information about the project, please get in touch by emailing hello@lshubwales.com.
- Hywel Dda University Health Board
- Swansea Bay University Health Board
NGPOD, Life Sciences Hub Wales, TriTech Institute
Service evaluation is launched at Swansea Bay University Health Board and Hywel Dda University Health Board
This study will help clinical, safety, procurement, and senior management teams to understand the value of implementing NGPOD as an alternative to pH strip testing for patients who need nasogastric feeding. The project will also evaluate patient acceptability, and cost effectiveness across the health system in real-world settings and whether NGPOD impacts patient outcomes.
It is hoped that the project will demonstrate a reduction in X-ray requests, alongside an improvement in the efficiencies of nasogastric testing and delays to treatment. If a reduction in the number of X-rays is demonstrated, this may reduce the overall cost of nasogastric tube placement confirmation and freeing capacity in radiology departments.