Enteral or tube feeding refers to the delivery of liquid feedings through a tube. Tube feedings are used for the infant or child with a functioning gastrointestinal tract who is unable to meet nutrition needs or safely consume food by mouth. The role of tube feeding may range from supportive therapy where only part of the child’s nutrition is provided by tube plus oral food intake, to a primary therapy where all of the nutrition needs are provided via the feeding tube. Feeding tubes may be used to provide medication, hydration, or to release air or stomach contents. Most children who receive tube feedings can continue to receive oral feedings to fulfill pleasurable and social aspects of eating. If children are totally fed via a tube feeding, offering some feedings at the same time the family is eating meals will engage these children in the social aspects of feeding.
Tube feeding benefits the child by improving growth, nutritional status and frequently, their primary condition. By ensuring the child’s nutrient needs are being met, tube feeding can free the family from anxiety and improve the child’s quality of life.
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Tube Feeding Basics
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