Implementation of the ENFit^® system to improve nursing procedures in the care of neurological patients receiving enteral nutrition

Martha E. Castillo-Trejo, Subdirección de Enfermería, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Secretaría de Salud, Ciudad de México, México
Guisety López-Cantera, Coordinación de Investigación en Enfermería, Subdirección de Enfermería; Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Secretaría de Salud, Ciudad de México, México
Alma D. Santiago-Mendoza, Subdirección de Enfermería, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Secretaría de Salud, Ciudad de México, México
Carlos A. Ugalde-Basabe, Coordinación de Investigación en Enfermería, Subdirección de Enfermería; Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Secretaría de Salud, Ciudad de México, México
Christian A. León-Molina, Facultad de Enfermería, Universidad Pablo Guardado Chávez, Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, México

Neurological conditions are a frequent cause of functional dependence and dysphagia, increasing the need for nutritional support through the administration of enteral nutrition (EN). In this context, ensuring the safe use of medical devices is an essential component of nursing care quality. The implementation of the ENFit^® system, in accordance with the ISO 80369-3 standard, emerges as a key measure for standardization and prevention of misconnections between enteral and intravenous systems, which are considered sentinel events due to their potential severity. This article presents a narrative review of the regulatory, clinical, and technical foundations of the ENFit^® system, as well as its relevance to nursing practice within a specialized neurological institution. It analyzes the risks associated with the use of Luer-type connectors, the implications of misconnection errors, and the benefits of redesigning devices focused on patient safety. Additionally, it discusses international and national regulations that govern the manufacturing, quality management, and standardization of enteral connection systems. The article highlights the role of nursing in the proper selection, installation, and maintenance of devices, emphasizing the need for continuous education and the implementation of evidence-based protocols. The integration of the SAFE-EN (Safe Administration For Enteral Nutrition) model is proposed as an educational and clinical tool that supports the safe adoption of the ENFit^® system, promotes active monitoring, and strengthens the institutional culture of safety. In conclusion, the incorporation of the ENFit^® system represents a significant advance for neurological nursing by reducing errors, optimizing processes, and ensuring safe, standardized, and patient-centered care.

Keywords: ENFit^® System. Enteral nutrition. Enteral feeding tubes. Nutritional support. Gastrointestinal transit.