Having a child with a feeding tube may take some getting used to but you will get the hang of it with support from family, friends and your healthcare team. Although you may need to make some changes, the key to adjusting successfully is for you and your team to come up with the plan that best fits your child’s and your family’s lifestyle to successfully accommodate tube feeding your child at home.
Tips for adjusting to tube feeding:
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- Find out from your healthcare team all you can about tube feeding and what to expect.
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- Work with your healthcare team to plan a feeding schedule that fits with school, appointments and sleep.
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- Have your child participate in his or her normal daily activities as much as possible. For example, have them join the family during mealtimes. She may take her feedings at another time if that works better.
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- Take all of your scheduled feedings. If you miss a feeding, ask your team if you can fit it in at another time. If your child uses a feeding pump, ask your Shield HealthCare representative about a complementary enteral backpack designed to carry the pump so that your child can receive tube feeding while at school or away from home.
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- Keep track of your child’s feeding and medication schedule and how he or she responds to feedings. Write down any questions or concerns and take them to your child’s medical appointments.
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- Keep track of your child’s weight and height. Your healthcare team will evaluate these measurements at regular visits to make sure your child is receiving adequate nutrition for growth and development.
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- Be prepared. Have enough formula and supplies on hand to safely administer your daily feedings.
- Connect with others who are on tube feeding. Ask your team about local support groups or join an online forum, such as the Feeding Tube Awareness Foundation.
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