Tube Feeding

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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Tube feeding, or enteral nutrition, provides your body with nutrients directly into your stomach or intestine. Tube feeding is recommended when you are not able to eat enough to get the nutrients you need. Your tube feeding may be temporary or permanent. Tube feeding can be given through a tube placed in your nose and down into your stomach. This kind of tube is used if you need a feeding tube for less than 6 weeks. Tube feeding can also be given through a tube placed through your abdomen directly into your stomach or intestine. This kind of tube is used if you need a feeding tube for longer than 4 to 6 weeks.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Seek care immediately if:

• You have trouble breathing.
• You have severe abdominal pain.
• Your feeding tube comes out.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Call your doctor if:

• You have a fever.
• You have abdominal pain or cramping.
• You have increased pain during your feeding or when your tube is flushed.
• Blood or tube feeding fluid leaks from the tube site.
• You have pain at the tube site.
• Your tube is clogged or damaged.
• The skin around your tube is red, warm, and swollen.
• You have constipation, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Self-care at home with tube feeding:

• Always wash your hands before touching your feeding tube, formula, or medicine. This lowers the risk of infection.
• Make sure your tube feeding is connected to the correct port on the feeding tube.
• The tube feeding formula should be at room temperature before your feeding. Room temperature formula may decrease your risk for diarrhea. Formula that is too cold or too hot can cause discomfort or destroy nutrients in the formula.
• Care for your feeding tube as directed. Flush your tube with warm water before and after feedings to prevent blockages.
• Sit up during your feeding to avoid reflux and aspiration (movement of tube feeding into your lungs). Remain sitting for 1 hour after your feeding is complete.
• Keep track of how much tube feeding you take in and how much you urinate. Write down any changes in bowel movements. Weigh yourself as directed by your healthcare provider.
• Continue regular mouth care. Use mouthwash 3 to 4 times a day to keep your mouth moist and prevent infection.
• Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed. You will need regular blood and urine tests to monitor your condition.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

You will need regular testing to monitor your condition. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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