Managing Spaghetti Syndrome in Critical Care With a Novel Device: A Nursing Perspective

Abstract

Background Managing “spaghetti syndrome,” the tangle of therapeutic cables, tubes, and cords at patients’ bedsides, can be challenging. Objectives To assess nurses’ perceptions of the effectiveness of a novel banding device in management of spaghetti syndrome. Methods A simple color-coded elastomeric banding strap with ribbed flaps was attached to bed rails of adult critical care patients to help organize therapeutic cables, tubes, wires, and cords. Nurses were surveyed before and after use of the bands and after the nursing shift to assess the burden of spaghetti syndrome and the effectiveness of using the bands. Results Use of the bands decreased the time spent untangling cords, reduced the frequency of contact of tubing with the floor, and diminished disruptions in care. Conclusions Use of a simple flexible latex-free elastomeric band may help organize therapeutic tubing at patients’ bedsides and may promote improvements in nursing care.