The goal of this newsletter is to share ideas for successful use of a feeding tube to meet the nutrition needs of a child in a family-friendly manner. Most of the practical tips shared are those from parents who have a variety of experiences with their children who have used a tube feeding. The suggestions provided are designed for day to day life including school and vacations. The use of the tips and information should be evaluated for each individual child based on their tube feeding experiences and family needs. Table 1, on page 2, describes some items a mother has now learned, but would have appreciated knowing earlier in her child’s tube feeding experience.
All pediatric patients with tube feedings will need to maintain close contact with their primary care provider and a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) with experience managing children of all ages who have tube feedings. Families may also work closely with an infusion company for formula and equipment supplies. These companies may employ health care professionals including registered nurses and RDNs. Some families may receive formula from WIC (the Women, Infants and Children Supplemental Nutrition Program). In addition, some children may also require oral-motor feeding therapy in preparation for eventual weaning from the feeding tube. Previous issues of Nutrition Focus Newsletter have described various methods of weaning children from tube feedings.
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Practical Tips for Tube Feeding
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