Microbiological aspects of the preparation and administration of naso-gastric and naso-enteric tube feeds in hospitals--a review.

The reported instances of microbial contamination of naso-gastric and naso-enteric feeds are reviewed and the significance of contamination discussed. Possible sources of contamination are suggested and factors affecting the rate of growth of organisms in feeds and feeding systems are considered. Comparisons are made with the in-use contamination of intravenous feeds.