Assisted feeding

An American Nurse in Britain- the work of Sister Trotter at Park Prewett Hospital, Basingstoke, England, 1941 D3021

Assisted Feeding

Assisted feeding, also known as enteral feeding, is a method of providing nutrition to individuals who are unable to consume food orally. This can be due to various reasons such as medical conditions, surgeries, or swallowing difficulties. Assisted feeding ensures that individuals receive the necessary nutrients to maintain their health and well-being.

Types of Assisted Feeding

There are several methods of assisted feeding, including:

Nasogastric Tube Feeding

Nasogastric tube feeding involves inserting a tube through the nose into the stomach to deliver liquid nutrition directly. This method is commonly used for short-term feeding.

Gastrostomy Tube Feeding

Gastrostomy tube feeding involves surgically inserting a tube directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall. This method is often used for long-term feeding in individuals who are unable to tolerate oral feeding.

Jejunostomy Tube Feeding

Jejunostomy tube feeding involves inserting a tube into the jejunum, which is part of the small intestine. This method is used when feeding directly into the stomach is not possible.

Benefits of Assisted Feeding

Assisted feeding provides several benefits, including:

- Ensuring individuals receive adequate nutrition - Maintaining hydration and electrolyte balance - Promoting healing and recovery - Preventing malnutrition and weight loss

Considerations for Assisted Feeding

Before initiating assisted feeding, healthcare providers consider various factors such as the individual's medical condition, nutritional requirements, and ability to tolerate feeding. Regular monitoring and adjustments may be necessary to ensure the effectiveness and safety of assisted feeding.