Projects
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Here are just a few examples of some of the current and historical projects, the LITRE committee have reviewed and commented on.
Please contact us - using the contact details incorporated within the Dear LITRE section - if you require any further details.
Current Projects
Litre Assesment of Ambulatory Pumps for Parenteral Nutrition
The four companies that had previously presented their product to LITRE were invited back to give the committee the latest updates.
Reports to the Committee of Latest Developments, 19th February 2007
Patients reported that not all pumps were suitable in home situations. We still constantly receive feedback from patients which makes this an ongoing topic.
For 2003 a new survey is under way in conjunction with the MHRA on present pumps.
TPN Line Occlusion
A common issue reported to LITRE, so an in depth survey was undertake in June 2003 to look at extensive parameters of incidence. The survey produced 103 returns which are currently under review and will shortly be published.
Leaking Gastrostomy Survey
A common issue for LITRE , this new study is with specialist centres and is presently under review.
Rucksack Design
We have established a liaison group of users to comment on the Baxter 6060 pump rucksack and the first session 10 people were involved, this is ongoing.
Past Projects
LITREVIEW
A publication for feedback on committee work, ceased due to lack of funds.
Litre Stand
Developed in 1994, updated at various intervals, last update 2002 in response to user comment.
Equipment Survey
Covered the period 1990/1995 presented at BAPEN 1995
Home TPN Check List
Compiled in response to hospital and companies asking what patients needed as minimum requirements. This is no longer required due to better and improved homecare provision.
Gastrostomy Survey 1995
The survey was presented at BAPEN in 1995, this is an ongoing problem and will be updated in the future.
LITRE Dressing Pack Survey
Extensive research into types and items included, looking for the ideal pack.
Conclusion - a final result was not achievable due to variations in practice, it was felt it was not LITRE's roll to dictate practice.
X-ray Safety at Airports
Concerns were raised as to the safety of feeds and pumps passing through X-ray? Advice was sought from manufacturers and University Professor who specialised in X-ray effects. Patients were advised to seek specific details for their products but in general advice received was that they were safe.
Universal Clamps
Patients reported problems with cleaning small areas on their clamps. Industry acknowledged the problem but the cost of changing the design was too expensive. Advice given was to use a soft make up brush to clean them but nothing sharp and to seek out hospital advice.
Skin Tone Dressings
Patients reported social discomfort when stared at with obvious white dressings. Manufacturers were contacted to establish whether they could be skin toned like stoma products. They felt there was insufficient demand and it would be a costly exercise to undertake.
Sharps Containers
Patients reported issues regarding travelling and sharps containers. Patients were informed that they came in various sizes and they could request these from their Home Care Company depending on their personal needs and duration of travel. Advised to always bring them home for disposal.
TPN Feed Containers
Frequent reports were received in relation to air, gassing out or the champagne effect.
Temperature and storage is related to such issues. Talks with manufacturers prompted research into improvements. Mira med bags were popular with patients as they appeared to reduce problems. Ongoing patients were kept informed via online.
Snapped CVC Line Clamps
Patients reported snapped line clamps and the problem to have them replaced. Advice was that they should have blue plastic clamps for back up in such situations. One patient informed us of a replacement clamp which did not require a repair thus reducing problems.
Travelling
Many questions come in, in relation to this; LITRE has assisted PINNT with the compilation of their Holiday Guidelines free to existing members and £2 to all others. Contact PINNT on 01202 481625 for a copy.
Enteral Syringes
LITRE was approached for comment on the proto type for a new reusable syringe designed for longer life than the standard ones. This is now in production and in use.