Reducing waste in parenteral nutrition: comparison of surgical- and standard-aseptic non-touch technique
Malhi, Hardip Fletcher, Jane
Malhi, Hardip
Fletcher, Jane
Affiliation
University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
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Publication date
2025-04-21
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Abstract
The NHS accounts for approximately 4% of carbon emissions in England. Aseptic techniques are an area where the use of consumables, and subsequent waste, may be high. Traditionally, administration of parenteral nutrition (PN) has been performed using a so-called sterile technique. The aim of this study was to compare the volume of waste generated from a traditional 'sterile' technique (Surgical-Aseptic Non-Touch Technique (ANTT)), using sterile gloves and a dressing pack, and Standard-ANTT, using non-sterile gloves, a general aseptic field and a micro-critical aseptic field where necessary in the administration of PN. Two procedure trays were arranged representing consumable equipment used in each procedure. All items including packaging were weighed. Standard-ANTT demonstrated an estimated 52% reduction in waste and carbon emissions. There is a pressing need for nurses to review practice and consider where more sustainable choices can be made in the administration of PN.
Citation
Malhi H, Fletcher J. Reducing waste in parenteral nutrition: comparison of Surgical- and Standard-Aseptic Non-Touch Technique. Br J Nurs. 2025 Apr 17;34(8):S19-S26. doi: 10.12968/bjon.2024.0255.
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Article