Home Tube Feeding: A Comprehensive Guide for Patient Care

After surgery or injury, a feeding tube is often necessary. There are three types of tubes: nasogastric, or through the nose; gastrostomy, or in the stomach, and a feeding jejunostomy placed directly into the small intestine. Each of the tubes must be placed by a medical professional. It is possible to use feeding tubes at home for months or years.

Things You'll Need

• Prescribed formula

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Instructions

• 1

  Measure the appropriate amount of prescribed formula. This amount is decided by a dietitian and is to be followed closely.

• 2

  Place the patient into the proper position. Their head should be raised at least 30 degrees. A sitting position is best, but they may be elevated using pillows.

• 3

  Add the formula to the feeding apparatus. Some feeding tubes require the formula be pushed through a syringe directly into the tube. Others use gravity to slowly feed the patient and require the formula be placed into a receptacle.

• 4

  Hold the feeding tube above head level of the patient. Consult the prescribing physician for the appropriate position to hold the tube.

• 5

  Clean the feeding tube according to the directions after each use.