$Unique_ID{BRK00700}
$Pretitle{Accidents, Poisoning, and Violence, Special Procedures and
Laboratory Tests}
$Title{Being Fed Through a Tube}
$Subject{tube feeding formulas purpose}
$Volume{O-10, P-10}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Being Fed Through a Tube


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QUESTION:  My friend was in an automobile accident, and when we were finally
permitted to visit him, we found that in addition to all the tubes and wires
attached to him, that he was also being fed through a tube that was placed in
his nose.  Does this mean he is in very serious condition?  How can he get
enough food that way to keep him strong?  We are very concerned and would like
your help.

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ANSWER:  Feeding a patient through a nasogastric tube (it passes through his
nose, down his esophagus and probably ends in his stomach or possibly the
duodenum, the first part of the small intestine) is a procedure that can be
vital to the recovery of your friend.  When a patient is unable to swallow
because of disease, or in acute care of trauma, the nutritional elements
needed by the body can be delivered through the tube, and then digested and
absorbed by the bodies own intestinal system.  The material used is a complete
diet, and contains all the necessary carbohydrates, fats and proteins the body
requires, in forms that makes digestion easy.  Most formulas are prepared
commercially, are sterile, and contain the minerals and essential chemicals
also needed.  There are several choices for physicians to chose from,
depending upon the condition of the patient.  The feedings may given
continuously, about 50 ml to 100 ml an hour, or may be given as meal, using
200 to 300 ml several times a day.  Nasogastric feedings are generally used
for patients who require this type of nutritional treatment over the short
course, and the tube will be replaced every 2 to 3 weeks.  While all the tubes
and wires may look frightening to you, they are all serving a necessary
purpose, and are helping the nurses and doctors to render the care to your
friend that he needs.  While I can't evaluate the seriousness of his
condition, I hope that by the time you read this, he will be up and about, and
that you will be convinced of the ability to nourish a patient through a tube.
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
