Since the average life expectancy is continually increasing, the number of patients with feeding tubes has risen dramatically. In order to provide optimal patient care and education, we have implemented a multidisciplinary group called the Enteral Access Clinic. The clinic is composed of a nurse coordinator, dietician, and three gastroenterologists. The ENTAC clinic is a valuable resource that provides continuity of care and support for the patients as well as their families. The Mission statement is "to optimize the care of those requiring enteral access in order to enhance their health and overall quality of life through patient care, research and education." This course will help attendees 1) identify and resolve nursing education issues surrounding PEG, PEJ, and interventional radiology gastrostomy tube placements; 2) discuss the development and implementation of an enteral access clinic (ENTAC Clinic); and 3) discuss operational issues related to the multidisciplinary team approach.

Section Description

We are pleased to present the abstracts from SGNA's 34th Annual Course, Charting a Course for Professional Growth. The diversity of these topics certainly reflects the richness and breadth of our specialty. In keeping with the tradition of the Annual Course, we hope the following abstracts will encourage discussions for improving nursing practice and patient care outcomes.