Tube Feeding
Description
- Tube feeding is the introduction of nourishment into the stomach by mechanical means through the hose and/or mouth.
Points to Remember:
- Give mouth care frequently at least 4 times daily.
- Wet lips and mouth frequently.
- If not contraindicated, let patient chew some solid food but do not allow him to swallow.
Equipments:
Tray with:
- Feeding tube of appropriate size
- Lubricant, water may do
- OS and kidney basin
- Syringe and small funnel
- Bed protector and rubber apron
- Bath towel
- Bowl containing the nourishment
Preparation of Patient:
- Same as in lavage
Procedure:
- The same as in lavage until the tube is inserted.
- After the tube has been inserted and is sure to be in the stomach, the nourishment is introduced using any of this methods:
- Connect funnel to the tubes and pour the nourishment into the funnel slowly. Hold funnel at a height which will alloy, the solution to enter the stomach.
- If given by gravity drip method) connect feeding tube with the drip set connected with the bottle of nourishment.
- If given by syringe, inject the nourishment thru the tube, climinating as much air as possible
- Flush tube with drinking water.
- Wait a few minutes, then clamp tube close to the mouth or nose and withdraw gently. If tube is left for subsequent feeding, secure tube in ph-ice adhesive tape along the side of the face- in front of the ear or along the nose and the forehead. Clamp the free and of the tube.
- Make patient comfortable.
- Clean equipment and keep.
Chart:
- Record time, kind of feeding, person who inserted the tube, amount of food taken and patient’s reactions