Taking control of your nutrition 

Living with a feeding tube can present its challenges, but with the right knowledge and support, you can thrive at home. It's about finding a routine that works for you and understanding that it's okay to ask for help. 

From managing your equipment to remembering, you're not alone. There's a whole community of people sharing your journey.  Let's work together to make tube feeding at home as comfortable and manageable as possible.  

Managing tube feeding at home can seem daunting and overwhleming, but with the right support and knowledge, it can be successfully managed. It can take time to get into a routine and adapt but do not be too hard on yourself, it’s all about adjusting in your time

Essential Equipment 

To effectively manage tube feeding at home, you'll need the following equipment: 

  • Feeding pump: For continuous feeding, a pump delivers formula at a steady rate. 
  • Syringes: For bolus feeding or administering medications. 
  • Feeding bags or bottles: To hold the feeding formula. 
  • Tubing: To connect the pump or syringe to the feeding tube, usually known as a giving set. 
  • Cleaning supplies: To maintain hygiene and prevent infections. 

 

Feeding Methods

There are two primary methods for tube feeding at home: 

  • Continuous feeding: A feeding pump delivers formula at a steady rate over a specified period, often overnight. 
  • Bolus feeding: Formula is administered in specific amounts at regular intervals using a syringe. 

 

Beyond Pumps and Boluses: Alternative Feeding Methods 

While feeding pumps and bolus feeding are common methods, there are other options for administering tube feeds: 

Gravity Feeding 

How it works: The formula flows through the tube due to gravity.    

Advantages: Doesn't require a pump and can be more cost-effective.    

Disadvantages: Requires careful monitoring and can be time-consuming.

Intermittent Feeding 

How it works: Smaller amounts of formula are administered over a shorter period, several times a day. 

Advantages: Can be more flexible than continuous feeding, often better tolerated. 

Disadvantages: Requires more frequent interruptions to daily routine

Cyclic Feeding 

How it works: Similar to intermittent feeding, but with longer feeding periods, often during sleep. 

Advantages: Allows for longer periods of uninterrupted sleep. 

Disadvantages: May not be suitable for everyone and requires careful planning. 

It's important to note that the best method for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Always consult with your healthcare team to determine the most appropriate approach.