Enteral Feeding: Clearing Up Misconceptions and Supporting Informed Choices
In neonatal and pediatric care, precision and safety are paramount—especially when it comes to enteral feeding. With multiple color and connector options available and differing perspectives on what constitutes best practice in enteral feeding safety, this article aims to clarify common misconceptions associated with enteral feeding products. Understanding the facts behind each system empowers clinicians to make informed choices that best support their patients and workflows.
Color Is a Preference, Not a Mandate
A common misconception in enteral feeding is the belief that product color is regulated by official standards. In truth, there is no mandated color requirement for enteral feeding products. Neither the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), The International Organization for Standardization (ISO), The Joint Commission (TJC), nor The Institute for Safe Medication Practices (ISMP) require specific colors for enteral devices. While color can serve as a helpful visual cue in clinical settings, it is not mandated by regulatory directive. This flexibility allows healthcare facilities to prioritize product performance, compatibility, and clinical functionality over color.
Your Connection, Your Choice
Hospitals and neonatal care teams have multiple connector options, each with distinct design features and clinical advantages. Common systems include ENFit®, TwistLok®, and legacy oral. Understanding the origins, design intentions, and practical applications can help guide informed decision-making and ensure compatibility with existing protocols and patient care goals.
ENFit® is a global standard developed by the Global Enteral Device Supplier Association (GEDSA), a consortium of medical device manufacturers and distributors. While ENFit is the most used system, its adoption is optional.
TwistLok® offers an alternative approach with the same core safety goals as ENFit®, but tailored to the precision and clinical realities of neonatal care. TwistLok was designed to prevent misconnections with IV systems and to prevent disconnections – just like ENfit. TwistLok’s compatibility with oral syringes also enhances flexibility, allowing for safe and accurate oral medication delivery alongside enteral feeding.
Color and Connection – It’s Up to You
There are no mandated standards dictating either the color or connector type for enteral feeding products. Ultimately, the choice of color and connector type for enteral feeding products rests with each individual facility. The best choice is the one that aligns with clinical goals, patient population and operational needs. Whether prioritizing ease of use, compatibility, safety features, or workflow efficiency, facilities are empowered to make informed decisions that support high-quality care.
Medela Supports Your Workflow with Flexible Enteral Feeding Solutions
At Medela, we believe in supporting choice. That’s why we offer enteral feeding products with both ENFit and TwistLok connectors, ensuring safe, compatible care regardless of your preferred system.
TwistLok: Designed for neonatal precision, safety and usability
TwistLok connectors are specifically designed with neonatal care in mind, addressing the same safety and connection concerns that led to the development of ENFit®. Their features support both patient safety and clinical efficiency, making them a reliable choice for enteral feeding.
- Safety: Incompatible with IV systems, preventing misconnections.
- Security: Locking mechanism minimizes the risk of accidental disconnections.
- Precision: Optimized for small-volume dosing—critical in neonatal feeding.
- Cleanliness: Design minimizes residual milk or medication buildup, reducing the need for complex cleaning protocols
- Efficiency: Simplified transition process with minimal retraining required.
Let’s Find the Right Fit Together
Medela is here to support your team with safe, compatible, and flexible enteral feeding solutions—whether you prefer ENFit® or TwistLok®[MJ3] . Ready to explore your options or get personalized guidance? Contact your NICU & Maternity Sales Consultant today to learn more about Medela’s enteral feeding solutions.
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ENFit® is a federally registered trademark of GEDSA and is used with permission.
