WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW: What is tube feeding? Tube feeding provides your body with nutrients when you are not able to eat or cannot absorb nutrition from the food you eat. Your tube feeding may be temporary or permanent. Tube feeding can be given through a tube placed in your nose and down into your stomach. Tube feeding can also be given through a tube placed through your abdomen directly into your stomach or intestines. What are the types of tube feeding? - Continuous tube feeding is a steady amount of formula being given over a long time. It can be stopped so that medicines or water can be given through your feeding tube. You may need to stop the feeding to check if you are digesting the formula properly. Continuous tube feedings are usually given using a feeding pump. A feeding pump can regulate the speed and amount of tube feeding that is given.
- Intermittent tube feeding is also known as bolus feeding. A large amount of formula is given over a short time. The feeding may be given at the same times you would eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It may be given only while you sleep. You and your healthcare provider will make a plan that fits into your daily schedule. A feeding pump may be used for feedings. You may be taught how to use a syringe or a free flow bag for feedings.
What will happen before I leave the hospital? You may need to continue tube feedings at home. A healthcare provider will teach you or someone close to you how to give tube feeding formula at home. You will learn how to use the equipment and care for your tube. You will learn how to find and fix problems with your tube feeding. A dietitian will decide what type of formula is best for you. What else do I need to know about tube feeding? - Always wash your hands before touching your feeding tube, formula, or medicine. This lowers the risk of infection.
- Make sure your tube feeding is connected to the correct port on the feeding tube.
- The tube feeding formula should be at room temperature before your feeding. Formula that is too cold or too hot can cause discomfort or destroy nutrients in the formula.
- Care for your feeding tube as directed. Flush your tube with warm water before and after feedings to prevent blockages.
- Sit up during your feeding to avoid reflux and aspiration (movement of tube feeding into your lungs). Remain sitting for 1 hour after your feeding is complete.
- Keep track of how much tube feeding you take in and how much you urinate. Write down any changes in bowel movements. Weigh yourself as directed by your healthcare provider.
- Continue regular mouth care. Use mouthwash 3 to 4 times a day to keep your mouth moist and prevent infection.
- Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed. You will need regular blood and urine tests to check for infection or other problems.
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