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November 26, 2024Feeding Tube Awareness Week (FTAW) is aimed to raise awareness of feeding tubes, a vital intervention for those who cannot eat or drink normally. They can be used temporarily or as a long-term solution. The week has a goal to reduce any stigma or judgment around feeding tubes, as well as provide support and resources for patients and families who use feeding tubes.
Definition and Explanation of Feeding Tube
A feeding tube is a small, soft, plastic tube placed through the nose (NG) or mouth (OG) into the stomach. (Mount Sinai)
Over 500,000 people in the U.S. use enteral feeding tubes at any given time. Whether due to illness, injury, loss of appetite, swallowing difficulties, or even medical operations, these individuals rely on feeding tubes to provide them with adequate nutrition to keep them healthy. While some may only need tubes for as little as a few weeks, others will rely on them throughout their entire lives. (Shield Healthcare)
Feeding Tubes for NICU Babies
Babies who are sick or born prematurely may not be able to suck or swallow well enough to bottle or breastfeed. Tube feedings allow the baby to get some or all of their feeding into the stomach. This is the most efficient and safest way to provide good nutrition. Oral medicines can also be given through the tube. (Mount Sinai)
The ability to eat is based on the coordination of sucking, swallowing, and breathing needed, which does not get fully established until 32 to 34 weeks gestation on average. Tube feeding helps baby receive enough nutrition to grow and develop, particularly when sickness and/or prematurity require even more nutrients. (Bliss)
Some babies go home with a feeding tube and the parents are educated on how to care for the tube and their child. NICU staff will educate parents on the following:
- How to check the tube to ensure correct position before feeding
- How to prepare the milk and fill the syringe connected to the tube
- How to position baby correctly for feeds
- How quickly to give feeds to support best digestion
- What warning signs and concerns to look for
(Bliss)
Types of Feeding Tubes Used in NICU
There are several different types of feeding tubes, each of which are used for different reasons.
Nasogastric tube (NG tube)
The NG tube is placed without surgery, enters the nose, and ends in the stomach. Babies usually have this tube placed soon after birth. With this tube, feedings can be administered with a feeding pump, a syringe, or bag of breast milk or formula. This type of tube can fairly easily get dislodged, be pulled out, or moved, and would then require to be replaced every time. (Lurie’s)
Gastrostomy tube (G-tube or GT)
A G-Tube is more stable and durable than a NG tube. It can be placed with laparoscopically or with minimally invasive surgery. It is easily covered, is not on the face, and does not restrict the nose or mouth. If the patient contracts a virus, the GT can be used to deliver medication, food, and liquids to hydrate. Infants can usually start taking feedings within 12 hours and then increase volume, with many infants getting their full feedings within two to three days. Parents can learn how to replace the G-Tube if they are sent home with the tube. G-Tubes can stay with babies for months, years, or perhaps indefinitely. (Lurie’s)
Jejunostomy tube (J-tube)
A J-Tube is a last resort for babies who cannot tolerate feedings into the stomach. The tube lessens the risks of aspiration, which occurs when food or liquids go into the lung. The J-tube requires abdominal surgery and is placed in the mid-section of the small intestine. (Lurie’s)
Resources for Families
Advocacy and Educational Resources
9 Reasons Why Preemies are More Often Tube Dependent than Infants Born at Term
Advocating for Your Child with Their Medical Team
Nasogastric Tubes (Insertion and Feeding)
What to Know About Tube Feeding Babies
What You Need to Know Now: A Parent’s Introduction to Tube Feeding
Your Child’s Feeding Tube: Guides and Resources
Financial Resources
Feeding Matters Family Assistance Program
Organizations
American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN)
Online Communities and Support Groups