Clogging Of Tube Feeds In Patients With Enteral Tube Feeds



Clogging Of Tube Feeds In Patients With Enteral Tube Feeds

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

Enteral feeding, or tube feeding, is a way to deliver nutrients through a tube if you cannot take food or drink through your mouth. In some cases, you may only need tube feeding for a short period of time during your hospital stay. In other cases, you may need to go home with the tube in place and continue to receive nutrition this way(Kenneth, 2009, pp. 121). It may be temporary or permanent.

Depending on your condition, you may have a tube that leads from the:

Nose to the stomach (nasogastric)

Abdominal wall to the stomach ( gastrostomy)

Abdominal wall to the intestines ( enterostomy)

Purpose of Statement

The main aim of the paper is to analyze tube feeding which provides you with proper nutrition when a condition makes it difficult, unsafe, or impossible to take food in through your mouth. Fluids and medicines can also be given through the tube.

Possible Complications

Possible complications of tube feeding include:

Diarrhea or constipation

Abdominal cramping or bloating

Breakdown of the skin surrounding the feeding tube

Irritated or infected stoma (the opening made in the abdomen)

High blood sugar (hyperglycemia)

Higher than normal phosphate levels in the blood

Nausea and vomiting

Inhaling the liquid formula into the lungs (aspiration)

Clogged or dislodged feeding tube

If you have gastroesophageal reflux, you may be at increased risk for vomiting or aspirating.

CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW

Tube feedings may be delivered by several methods. Depending on your condition, a nurse, trained caregiver, or family member may deliver the tube feeding. If you are able, you may receive training on how to give yourself the feedings.

Syringe Method

The feeding tube will be clamped or kinked. A large syringe will be attached to it. The formula will be poured slowly into the syringe. ...