The importance of individualised care, good communication and trust for reducing nasogastric tube feeding under physical restraint: qualitative multi-informant study

Background Nasogastric tube (NGT) feeding against a patient's consent is an intervention that clinicians working in specialist mental health in-patient units may need to implement from time to time. Little research has explored clinician, patient and carer perspectives on good practice. Aims To use qualitative data from people with lived experience (PWLE), parents/carers and clinicians, to identify components of best practice when this intervention is required. Method PWLE and parents/carers were recruited via BEAT UK's eating disorder charity. Clinicians were recruited via a post on The British Eating Disorders Society's research page. Semi-structured interviews were administered, transcribed and thematically analysed. Results Thirty-six interviews took place and overlapping themes were identified. Participants spoke in relation to three themes: first, the significance of individualised care; second, the importance of communication; third, the impact of staff relationships. Sub-themes were identified and explored. Conclusions Good care evolved around positive staff relationships and individualised care planning rather than standard processes. The centrality of trust as an important mediator of outcome was identified, and this should be acknowledged in any service that delivers this intervention.