A comparative study published in the British Journal of Nursing by Hardip Malhi (BAPEN Sustainability SIG Member) and Jane Fletcher (BAPEN Professional Affairs Officer) explores the waste generated by two different techniques used in the administration of parenteral nutrition (PN).
The study compares the traditional Surgical-Aseptic Non-Touch Technique (ANTT), which involves the use of sterile gloves and a dressing pack, with Standard-ANTT, which uses non-sterile gloves and a general aseptic field. Researchers evaluated the consumables required for each method by assembling procedure trays and weighing all items, including packaging. Findings indicate that the Standard-ANTT approach resulted in an estimated 52% reduction in waste and associated carbon emissions.
The study highlights the potential for changes in clinical practice to reduce environmental impact. As the authors note, “there is a pressing need for nurses to review practice and consider where more sustainable choices can be made in the administration of Parenteral Nutrition.”
Learn more about the work of BAPEN’s Sustainability Special Interest Group
