Learning About Tube Feeding in Children

What is it?

Tube feeding is a way to give your child nutrition, fluids, and medicines through a tube into the stomach or intestines. The tube may be placed through the skin of the belly during surgery. Or it may go into the nose, down the throat, and into the stomach.

Why is it done?

Tube feeding is done when a health problem makes it hard for your child to get nutrition or gain weight by eating. Depending on your child's condition, tube feeding may be needed for only a short time. For some children, it may be needed much longer.

How is it done?

A special formula is placed into your child's feeding tube and delivered into the stomach or intestines. This may be done in different ways. Some tube feeding is done with a bag. Some is done with a bag and a pump. And sometimes it's done with a syringe.

How can you care for your child?

Your doctor will give you instructions about how to use your child's feeding tube. You'll learn what nutrition and fluids should be fed through the tube. If you need to give medicines through the tube, the doctor will give you instructions about how to do it.

When you take your child home, you will still have support from your care team. A nurse will visit to help you learn to use the tube. You will have home visits until you feel confident. And a nurse can come back again if you have problems or need help later on.

It may seem like a lot to remember at first. But with time and practice, using the feeding tube will get easier and you'll be more comfortable.