Tube Feeding Overview

October 16, 2010

By the American College of Surgeons (ACS) Feeding Tube Home Skills Program.

Ainsley has a trach due to upper airway swelling. She is unable to eat and is fed with a gastrostomy tube. We make a blenderized diet of pureed foods that we give with a quick bolus tube feeding.

{ 223 comments… read them below or add one }

Weatherford LM November 21, 2011 at 10:10 pm

While working in a hospital, I have had the opportunity to see and deal with many tube feedings. Not only did it help supply the patient with nutrients and caloric intake but also another means of giving the patient their medications. As a reminder the patient needs to stay around 30 degrees upright so that they do not aspirate and if and when you need to perform daily care on them as far as rolling or repositioning them the machine needs to be turned off.

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Cbarrett April 21, 2015 at 6:13 pm

it is a pain to try to get some pills down those tubes though.

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swhitfield April 2, 2016 at 3:34 pm

some medications dissolve better than others, however if you mix it with water, and keep flushing it with water boluses, it generally does okay.

Ashleigh W. July 15, 2016 at 5:23 pm

I know you would have to really grind the pills fine enough to absorb in water before you try to do it.

kfendley July 27, 2016 at 9:08 pm

I believe that if the medication is dissolved and properly flushed after each administration it is fairly simple to use the tube feeding site to administer medications. I have found that many people out in the filed do not flush or mix the medications properly which can clog the tube.

MEE November 2, 2016 at 11:43 pm

During my nursing school competencies while practicing with the feeding tubes, I blew the tube out of the bottle trying to get the pills to dissolve. It was a mess. My instructor said it can happen if you don’t get the medication dissolved enough.

Averyel85 November 11, 2016 at 9:51 am

I agree with Kfendley, getting the meds ground down as powdery as you can, making sure they are as dissolved as possible and adequate flushing is key!

eramsey4317 April 11, 2017 at 6:29 pm

Always make sure there are no contraindications to the medications that are required to be crushed for G-Tube administration! There have been instances I’ve had to call the doctor to obtain an alternative to something that they could have through their tubes. There is a medication I administer to a patient that the packaging states it dissolves better in milk based products. I had a DON who recommended allowing the crushed meds to fully dissolve in warm water (NOT HOT)… which a nurse tried arguing with me on this stating that the warm water would negate the chemical properties of the medication, but think about how warm your core body temperature gets (Keep in mind, room temperature water is around 68 F)

smcneely24 April 11, 2018 at 4:41 pm

That sounds absolutely terrible. Maybe dissolving it in water would be better than just sending it down the tube,

Stephanie Rogers April 11, 2018 at 5:25 pm

My great grandpa has to have feeding tube and my nana and aunts take turns on taking care of him and they usually grind the pills up and mix with water. They always flush with water to make sure it all goes through.

klane September 21, 2018 at 10:03 pm

Not if you crush the pills, they go through easily.

Cindy Leopold April 22, 2015 at 6:28 pm

I have been an LPN for 20 years cared for many patients with feeding tubes , I was going to bring up the fact that they needed to be at 30 degrees as well . also checking for placement is very important

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mthacker0878 September 5, 2015 at 12:23 pm

I am also an LPN and have been practicing for 5 years. I have cared for different patients with feeding tubes and I personally enjoy working with them. I agree with you completely before the feeding process can begin proper placement has to be checked, and positioning a patient at 30 degrees in return allows gravity to do its part.

sparrish March 17, 2016 at 11:49 pm

I do not have a nursing background but if placement is critical… I am wondering why it was not mentioned in the video? Bless Sweet Ainsley’s heart… I have never seen anyone use a feeding tube before. The video did not mention any negatives at all….

lefj1979 April 6, 2016 at 7:44 pm

Its always important to check the placement before each feeding and always make sure the head is up 30 degrees so the patient doesn’t aspirate.

tlampinen July 16, 2016 at 11:35 pm

I was also curious as to why the 30 degree elevatation was not mentioned, i have worked with many patients over the years with feeding tubes and that is a critical fact they left out

ANewman April 12, 2017 at 2:47 pm

I did not know that, thank you for sharing your experience and knowlage.

Catapult1 November 7, 2018 at 10:14 pm

You are so right. But where I used to work our nurse educator used to question us why we were checking placement by introducing air. She really did not like introducing air and would say even if the tube is in a different cavity other than the stomach you would not be able to tell the difference. The only good way to check placement was PH and X-Ray she would say teach us.

ameiklejohn November 5, 2019 at 3:40 pm

I watch over a little girl that can not swallow her food and has to have a feeding tube in her belly. I use all the same precautions when caring for her and handling her feeding time.

A Diehl November 9, 2019 at 11:21 pm

I believe that if the medication is dissolved and properly flushed after each administration it is fairly simple to use the tube feeding site to administer medications. I have found that many people out in the filed do not flush or mix the medications properly which can clog the tube.

Mholyfiel April 10, 2022 at 8:41 pm

Thats very interesting to know that they have to be placed at thirty degrees for the feeding tube.

atolleson November 5, 2015 at 11:31 am

Thank You for this Information! Im starting nursing school In January and I want to work in a hospital some day.

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RSwaim July 19, 2016 at 2:04 pm

Proper placement is always important and also that there is no blockage.

jpatino July 26, 2016 at 4:30 pm

Placement is very important. Always besure to check placement.

khoward November 6, 2017 at 7:22 pm

Grinding the medications down to a fine powder and flushing appears to be the key factor here.

ppumphrey December 2, 2015 at 2:51 pm

I have dealt with feeding tubes on children that attended a “preschool” that I worked at. Placement checking and position are VERY important!

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Chelsea Vogel Hunter February 7, 2016 at 6:48 am

that is so sad, i couldn’t imagine having to be in either position.

scasteel April 11, 2017 at 4:29 pm

I am so thankful to have seen this video, it really made me sad, however, I appreciate people in the nursing field and who help these children

nwade November 8, 2017 at 9:47 pm

Wow, that is so terrible. It breaks my heart to have to see that.

hcrabb November 6, 2018 at 10:08 pm

I agree, placement would be very important for this procedure. It seems like if one little thing is off, it could really cause harm. As I watched the video’s I kept imagining too much air going through the tube into the stomach. I wondered if that would just cause gas like when we swallow air, or would it do something else? Either way it’s so good that science has come this far and we are able to redirect some basic needs when necessary for survival.

lcarroll9978 April 2, 2016 at 12:01 am

This gives very much information from someone with experience. I can believe that the 30 degree position is very important for the patient.

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psimms July 22, 2016 at 4:32 pm

With the correct care, tube feeding is a life saver. Especially for medication. This provides people with another way to take their medications.

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bbyers6771 February 4, 2017 at 5:15 am

I completely agree that a feeding tube can be a lifesaver.

yhogan November 8, 2023 at 7:12 pm

I never really understood how important it is to care for a patient on a feeding tube.

HHairston October 28, 2016 at 9:58 am

I have a family member through family who has to have these types of feedings! I got to help her do one. Very interesting! I love things like this!

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afriedl November 2, 2016 at 6:18 pm

It is also important to maintain proper nutrition!

nbarganier October 12, 2023 at 3:56 pm

I’ve never had a family member be tube fed but i got to see nurses change my dad’s medication when he had surgery on his back and when the doctor came to check my dad’s scar. It’s not the same as tube feeding but still very interesting.

koverton November 7, 2016 at 12:07 pm

It’s scary to think of the problems that can occur with a feeding tube.

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Aflores1965 November 11, 2016 at 11:10 pm

WoW! I definitely could not do what you do. I would be so scared.

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abane July 19, 2018 at 1:26 am

Same. I would be sscared I would choke them.

AEvans2 November 7, 2018 at 10:43 pm

Yes I would be scared as well but if it saves my kids life I would have to put a brave face on and do it

csmart January 25, 2017 at 6:27 pm

I also work with patients who have tube feedings. I agree with you that positioning the patients should be done delicately and while the machine is off. If the patient was to roll on top of the tube or pull it out accidentally the patient would be in a great deal of pain.

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sawadjihe October 24, 2018 at 11:41 am

I agree. It is very important to elevated the head of bed between 30 -45 degree in order to prevent the risk of aspiration. family need to respect hygiene when handle a patient with tube feeding.

ggilb23 October 11, 2023 at 5:52 pm

I can’t imagine the pain the patient would be in so I’m grateful for the doctors with their knowledge and experience. I had a family member who had to be fed through a tube for a bit with how sick they were so I’m glad these tubs exist.

esmith November 7, 2023 at 8:59 pm

I agree with positioning and making sure the tubing is out of the way from the patient rolling or even getting pulled. We see patients get wounds from laying on the tubing for a while.

mbarrett2289 April 12, 2017 at 3:53 pm

I didn’t know that you could administer medication through feeding tubes. That is very interesting and I am sure it is very helpful in certain situations.

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caty marsischky July 18, 2018 at 1:21 am

Same, I had no idea you could give meds through a feeding tube.

mclark8 November 8, 2017 at 8:38 pm

My sister has a younger sister on her dad’s side and she had to be fed through a tube. She got way better amounts of nutrients and calorie intake too! The doctors always raved about how her being fed through the tube helped her develop a lot quicker for her conditions.

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Natalie Fusilier November 8, 2017 at 11:28 pm

Even though it is a miracle being able to give patients the nutrients they need to survive, it is very sad to see someone going through this.

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mpurifoy April 15, 2018 at 5:33 pm

I didn’t realize how much care really went into a feeding tube.

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mwilson98 July 19, 2018 at 1:00 pm

That is true because when I was three years old, I was ran over by a tractor and I do not remember any feeding tubs going down my throat at all. But I know that they had to put one down my throat so I can get my meds and my nutrients.

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tnewborn August 27, 2018 at 8:29 pm

I know how you feel but its a great thing that they came up with a way for people to still get the nutrients they needs.

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amcclure October 30, 2018 at 1:07 pm

I used to work in a nursing home and I got to witness the tube feedings also. The tubes where always in the way when trying to give them daily care but I knew they needed the machines to survive. It would always hurt me to see them like that but things happen for a reason.

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tsamuels November 7, 2018 at 9:26 pm

I bet it can be hard to get the pills down the tube.

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Cwatkins7091 November 5, 2019 at 6:07 am

If you are dealing with pills, crushing and the proper flushing makes administering of the medications a little easier.

havenhughes14 December 1, 2019 at 2:24 pm

Weatherford LM, your comment was very educational. I had no idea that you needed to keep the patient at 30 degrees upright so they do not aspirate. I also did not know that you cannot perform daily care on them with the machine being on. I am hopefully going into nursing school soon, so I will already know more going in thanks to your comment.

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artreadway November 4, 2020 at 8:48 pm

It is great to have experience when using devices like feeding tubes. Without that experience, you might make a mistake that could cost you the patient’s health or even his life.

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AAtkin2020 November 11, 2020 at 2:13 pm

I completely agree with you, I am a nursing student and have got to experience these a bit. It is very important to know how to care for these patients with feeding tubes, and to know the general facts about each type of feeding, this video gives great examples of that.

AAtkin2020

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ANowlin April 5, 2022 at 7:00 pm

I would be so scared to mess up because I have always been conscious of not harming others or animals. And seeing the first video with the toddler made me nauseous because of the parent spinning their button around.

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panda August 30, 2022 at 10:29 am

I always like pointers and tips from someone that knows what they are talking about.

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acrock4ett656 September 25, 2022 at 4:14 pm

I have only seen one person with this in my life. It is a good thing that will help those in need of it.

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GCHANG November 21, 2011 at 9:02 pm

Feeding tubes are sad. I was doing my clinicals in highschool and there was a patient there who had a feeding tube and that was something I couldn’t handle for a while because I just couldnt image living like that. There was a certain way to handle her and clean her and as a senior in high school it was difficult to understand the whole proces, but now I understand it more. It’s a life saving tool becuase when your body isnt functioning like it should, this helps keep them alive.

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lbabb March 31, 2015 at 12:43 pm

You’re so right, it is so sad to see people have to be feed through a tube, but it keeps them alive and they all handle it very well!

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aharrington April 8, 2015 at 8:10 pm

It is sad to see the little girl in the second video doing her own tube. She can’t be any older than my youngest child and she has the knowledge to do her feeding on her own. Maybe one day there will be a cure so the babies don’t have to do that anymore.

Megan moore February 24, 2016 at 11:57 pm

I do agree it is sad. I would hate it if that is how I would have to eat is through a tube. But if it works and keeps them alive then that’s how it will have to be!

HHairston October 28, 2016 at 9:59 am

It is sad, but it is a happy part of their life when they can accomplish the task on their own. Like riding a bike or learning to do their own laundry. Its a self achievement feeling!:)

Cicenhower July 2, 2017 at 5:02 pm

I think it is great there there is a device like the feeding tube that gives a way for people to get their nutrition if they are unable to eat.

CHARPER3 November 8, 2017 at 6:03 pm

Those poor babies on those tubes! I know they are necessary for them to continue to live so I suppose that’s how it has to be. The ability to eat and chew food is something taken for granted for sure.

CLovell April 8, 2015 at 11:22 pm

Even though it is sad to see, if it wasn’t for tube feeding many people wouldn’t get a chance to live.

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JStringfellow April 16, 2015 at 12:22 pm

So true, I totally agree, It is so sad, but for them to live they need it.

trhoden November 1, 2016 at 11:22 pm

Yes, I agree they are very sad to see but are need in some cases to live.

msorrell April 30, 2017 at 3:04 pm

I agree, it is a great thing that tube feeding is an option

Hailee Cooper November 8, 2017 at 4:58 pm

This is very true and sad to think about.

eljaye28 April 3, 2022 at 9:34 pm

It’s a little sad, but a blessing at the same time. I think it’s amazing that the little girl knows how to operate her own tube.

mandax April 22, 2015 at 1:41 pm

Tube feeding is a great way to get nutrition to those that are unable to eat on their own. The procedure was kind of scary to me. I couldn’t imagine having one.

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kmclane1426 November 8, 2015 at 10:49 pm

I agree. I could not imagine it either. Tube feeding would scare me only because I would be real cautious to not hurt that person or do something wrong.

tclift23 March 2, 2016 at 3:43 pm

The thought of this alone gives me chills. Its a good thing for people to get nutrients who can not personally eat though.

aekwelle March 16, 2016 at 11:36 am

Exactly I am thankful my whole family are able to eat on their own without a tube. I can only image how that feels and if it is uncomfortable to sleep on their stomach.

IReagan April 6, 2016 at 9:02 pm

I agree. I can’t imagine the frustrations that come with needing a feeding tube everyday.

JessyM July 25, 2016 at 11:51 am

I understand it is critical in many cases, but I am not sure it would be easy to handle this as a parent. I know we adapt, I just think it would be scary and extremely overwhelming on the home care side. I would be second guessing myself at home, in a clinical setting I think I would do well treating a patient, just harder when it is someone at home.

kherrick March 26, 2017 at 9:23 am

If I had to be the one in charge of a feeding tube I would be looking for help. Thanks to all the nurses and home health care givers.

KLaFlora July 15, 2017 at 12:52 pm

I agree it is kind of scary. I also felt sad for the girl trying to lick the cap of her tubefeeding. But, I am glad they have them to get their nutrition needs met.

ycanasramos March 26, 2018 at 8:12 pm

Yes, it is a great way to get nutrition. I have been watching people at the nursing home that they feed themselves. Probably at the very beginning is kind of scary but then I guess they get used too after some tube feeding.

ywilson July 7, 2015 at 2:06 pm

I agree. I couldn’t imagine living like that either. But I do understand that, some people have to have the feeding tube to survive.

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thicks July 21, 2016 at 9:14 pm

I agree. I couldn’t even begin to imagine having to live that way.

tcrossley July 22, 2015 at 5:27 pm

It is sad, only because for children they want to eat like everyone else but can not. My daughter had to have one placed before she was 2 yr old so it was difficult but did not stop her at all.

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Ashleigh W. July 15, 2016 at 5:31 pm

It is sad, but I am glad her mom is so patient and willing to show people how to tube feed. I’m sure there are many families and healthcare professionals that benefitted from this video.

JGarrett July 21, 2016 at 3:07 pm

That would be the hardest part i think is to see other people eating and smelling everyone else food.

rrink October 4, 2016 at 2:52 pm

I couldn’t begin to imagine how painful that must have been for her to grown up feeling left out or different. Bless her little heart! You’re a strong and wonderful parent for watching her go through this!

astefanovic November 12, 2015 at 12:06 am

i couldnt imagine living that way either. We take so many simple things for granted that some people arent even able to do even something as simple as eating.

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Blusinger March 3, 2016 at 1:13 pm

it would be very sad to see people that are on feeding tubes. I don’t think I could do it either.

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BMcGriff1227 March 29, 2017 at 3:54 pm

I haven’t met anyone with a feeding tube but I never knew how much pain they had to go through and just what exactly they had to do . It is very sad but at least they have ways to help them.

Collins.M April 5, 2016 at 9:11 pm

Feeding tubes are sad but it depends the situation that the person/patient is in. Some are permanent while others are not.It depending on the level and gravity of the patients illness.

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mcunningham April 5, 2016 at 9:20 pm

It is very sad. Hate you had to do that but I guess we gotta remember it’s what is keeping them alive. I don’t know if I would be able to handle something like that. Its a tough situation.

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Cbrown1900 April 6, 2016 at 2:00 pm

I agree having to be tube fed is very sad. One of my boys was tube fed for almost the first three years of his life and I hated it!!!

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lmitchell April 6, 2016 at 5:53 pm

I can’t imagine having to experience this much less having to see my child go through this procedure. I watched a show on TLC recently where a parent was having to give tube feedings to one of her children and it took me watching the story a couple of times to realize that is what she was doing. She was always very concerned about him and was having a weight loss procedure done on herself so that she could continue to be able to take care of him as long as possible. I haven’t dealt with this in the clinical setting yet, but it does happen and I hope that I am able to carry out the orders for this procedure as successfully and comfortably as possible for my patient.

Kaycie Bullion April 6, 2016 at 3:41 pm

Yes, feeding tubes are very sad. I’m in nursing school and have seen a lot of them during clinicals. hate it

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JPrichard April 7, 2016 at 12:35 am

Very true, I was thinking about being a nurse but I didn’t think i could handle seeing people go through that but i’d do anything to help anyone who is in pain.

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AToney86 April 7, 2016 at 12:43 am

Your right it is sad but in the video where the little girl was doing it for herself she almost seemed happy that it was done simple enough so that she could even do it by herself.

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knichole April 7, 2016 at 6:48 pm

Feeding tubes are sad, but are needed sometimes. I also cannot imagine living like that.

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bjohnson November 9, 2016 at 10:20 pm

It is very difficult to see people who can not function normally and have to have tubes in place. I am very thankful for them though because as you said it is a life saving measure and as long as the quality of life is there for that person, that tube feeding is keeping someone’s loved one around for a little longer.

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Autumnd October 29, 2017 at 3:56 pm

I agree. It has helped my grandad when he was real sick this year. They said it would be permanent but he got to get it taken out.

mhardage3 April 10, 2017 at 5:52 pm

agreed! it has helped save a few of my friends lives and my dads life and i am thankful for it!

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Lcatlett November 8, 2017 at 11:40 pm

It is definitely eye-opening to see this in person. I could not imagine living with feeding through a tube either, it is definitely necessary and live saving. Those who have to have feeding tubes are troopers because I know that cannot be easy.

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kklein March 13, 2018 at 9:45 am

I agree, it is hard and very sad to think about people having to live that way.

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Jodie Hammonds April 7, 2018 at 6:49 pm

I completely agree! It is an extremely sad fact to see and live through, but life saving none-the-less. Especially when you watch little children operating and understanding the mechanics of a feeding tube. I was truly brought to tears!

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ageorge5 October 31, 2018 at 12:07 pm

I could imagine going through high school with a feeding tube let alone having a young child who could only eat through a tube. I feel like it would be challenging to do this process as a parent for their child every day, but I am thankful that this tool allows for a way to feed the body when the patient can’t process foods properly.

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kfowler November 5, 2019 at 1:46 pm

I could not imagine going through this or watching anyone else go through this as well. Though it something nobody wants it has saved so many lives as well and it very nice we developed something like this to save people.

hjohnson October 20, 2019 at 3:24 pm

It really is sad to see. The worst part is that you wish you could help but you know you can’t. The best thing to do is try to make the patient feel as comfortable as they can.

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wmccoy3365 November 5, 2019 at 12:55 pm

It is so hard to see for the first time but so helpful for the patients. I did CNA and there was so many people on them but it helped so much. I know it is hard to see but a great source provided to keep them alive and healthy.

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cford November 19, 2011 at 9:24 pm

I found this to me so very interesting. I was a caregiver for several years and feeding clients with feeding tubes was a reglar thing for the kids I cared for. I enjoyed learning the process of how one is put in.
thank you for this video

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Weatherford LM November 21, 2011 at 10:13 pm

It is very rewarding to take care of patients that are ill or children for that matter, knowing that you helped them a step further in their recovery. At the same time though everyone needs to know what they are doing- if not the patient could suffer from our mistakes! 🙂

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christinawilliams1996 November 3, 2015 at 8:19 pm

I liked the video as well. I have seen a nurse feed a pt with a feeding tube and it think feeding tubes save peoples lives.

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dasmith February 14, 2016 at 1:38 pm

I also found the insertion very interesting. I’ve not had the information before even though my grandmother had one while struggling with esophageal cancer and a couple of children in my classroom have them.

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wevans July 24, 2016 at 1:16 pm

I too find it interesting to see the human spirit adapt to what seems to be such a bad situation to most, but a way of life to the ones that do it. I am always impressed at what medical science has come up with to make life livable for people with specialized problems and the way that the users and caregivers become so adept at using these techniques as just part of life and look so simple.

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DGPatton November 2, 2016 at 8:17 pm

A sad but necessary part of life today. Instead of being sad for their difference, be happy for their ability to live.

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TMann November 19, 2011 at 5:38 pm

I knew some of the reasons for PEG placements but not all. It was also helpful to see the actual process of how they are placed. I wasn’t aware that it was possible to puree foods which I am happy to see. The last video was touching on how advancements can save lives but still saddens me to see such a young child has to have PEG. It is encouraging to see that they can have just a button top to allow more normal appearance decreasing the conflicts with self image.

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mswitzer April 18, 2015 at 4:35 pm

I think seeing the way that the tubs are inserted was very helpful also.

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jrousu November 7, 2017 at 6:34 pm

The pictures/videos helped me to understand the process of tube placement. It also helped to watch the different methods used for feeding as I am sure I will be doing all of these eventually.

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GilesCN November 15, 2011 at 11:12 am

I really enjoyed this information! I always wondered exactly how and what the procedure was for placing feeding tubes through the stomach! At my old job a few of the clients had feeding tubes, and I never really understood how they went about changing them, cleaning them and placing them, but after watching this video I now have a clear understanding!

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cford November 19, 2011 at 9:25 pm

I felt the same way about knowing how the feeding tubes really work. I too found this very interesting.

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ywilson July 7, 2015 at 2:00 pm

It’s interesting to know how they work, but I am a very weak, when it comes to something like this. It was hard to watch.

Ashleigh W. July 15, 2016 at 5:32 pm

I agree, I to have watched it be done, but having this video helps much more.

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Bsossamon July 20, 2016 at 11:55 am

I agree it is very hard to watch

Jallinson90 April 6, 2017 at 5:16 pm

Yeah the video was very informative. Before watching it, I had just heard a few things about how they were handled, but now I have a much better understanding of the whole process.

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WhiteKD November 14, 2011 at 10:02 pm

I knew about the push method from being a Surgical Technologist and now going through the RN Program, but was very impressed with the pull method. The girl in the second video seemed to be very comfortable with having a feeding tube and operating it. I was VERY impressed with the last video because the mother was actually giving her food instead of the canned protein. It is very important to flush the tube, we learned about this last week in CTA.

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jkehler February 15, 2015 at 11:38 pm

Having worked in an endoscopy lab, I have assisted the gastroenterologist with placement of feeding tube many times, using both the pull and push method. The method used really depends on physician preference and where he received his medical training. You must have xray confirmation of placement before using the tube for the first time. The smooth pegs, called a mickey button, are the easiest, least obtrusive type for a still active person.

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Ashleigh W. July 15, 2016 at 5:42 pm

I loved that the mom made her own food! I think it is more beneficial for the child, having puree meals in her feed.

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daviste November 10, 2011 at 9:06 pm

I have a child that refuses to eat, He will go a week at a time without a meal. I have to give him pediasure at least three times a day to keep him healthy. I hope he NEVER has to have a tube put in. I wouldn’t want to live that way.

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jharvill April 18, 2012 at 2:31 pm

That would be hard to have a child that had to be feed this way but if it is what they need than it needs to be done.

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jharvill April 18, 2012 at 2:35 pm

It would be hard to have a child who had to be fed like this but if that is what they need it has to be done

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devans March 18, 2015 at 10:17 pm

Hi. A week at a time without eating? How’s he doing these days?

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JBoyett November 10, 2011 at 5:15 am

I’ve never really encountered very many children with PEG tubes, but I have to say I was impressed with the way the little girl in the second video handled herself. I guess when you have to do something everyday, it just becomes routine to kids.

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GCHANG November 21, 2011 at 9:04 pm

yea you learn to work with what you got and it’s good that she can help herself. Its sadding to see that people are on feeding tubes, but it’s also good that they understand the situation they are in.

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Gina Jones July 27, 2016 at 9:01 pm

Yeah, me too. It’s sad to see but you do what you have to do when your survival depends on it.

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ConnerC November 1, 2011 at 5:02 pm

the tube feeding video really helps me understand what the patients at the hospital go through. I have seen many adults with PEG tube but never a child but it is great that the child in the second video helps and understands how it all works. I could not image my daughter having to go through that but i guess we could over come it just like those families. It really makes you think of how blessed we are with healthy children.

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JBoyett November 10, 2011 at 5:18 am

I also have seen many adults with PEG tubes, but very few kids. The little girl made it seem like it was all routine!

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vvaldes1222 May 1, 2015 at 9:57 pm

I agree, I don’t think I could see a child have a tube in them. It would be very hard. I watched my mom have one and that was hard.

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Koon KR October 28, 2011 at 12:46 pm

The last video with the little girl was so cute. It amazes me how fast she can be fed through the tube feeding. The first video was not as interesting but had some good points just kind of hard to focus on it.

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ywilson July 7, 2015 at 1:52 pm

I agree, The little girl is just darling. We can learn a lot from little ones like her and so many others that have to go through this pain.

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HGraves2 July 13, 2015 at 1:40 am

God bless this amazing little girl !

djennings2061 July 22, 2015 at 10:35 am

it really hurt seeing that that was the only way she could eat, i guess we gotta be thankful. and koon kr is right i definitely enjoyed the second video more.

wallaceba October 26, 2011 at 6:27 pm

I had children who were in the Petty Dev. Center and at that time there were 3 children who recieved tube feedings. Each had a little bit different setup. This was a way of life for these families , just as the little girl on the second video exihibits, it was no big deal. It was amazing to me to see how adaptable we as humans can be when it comes to the need to survive.

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Barber JN October 25, 2011 at 9:47 pm

This entire section, even the chapter in the book, grossed me out. I’m not trying to be insensitive. I am bad about getting sympathy pains and it was hard for me to read about tube feeding and the like. The intravenous feedings weren’t so bad b/c I am a phlebotomist, but the tube feeding stuff was rough on my imagination.

It is amazing the technology these days. I am glad to know that patients with severe problems or diseases can still get their needed nutrients. It is very scary, though, when you think of the problems that can arise. Infections, contamination, injury, etc.

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Spencer KA October 25, 2011 at 12:58 pm

I really liked both of these videos I guess mainly because they provided me with information that showed me I shouldn’t assume things because it’s not the case. I liked the first video the most probably but it made me think that it could be really painful. It amazes me that so many things can be sent thru a feeding tube (the last video), once again what I get for assuming.

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dtoennis October 24, 2011 at 10:37 am

I have dealt with Peg tubes along with bolus feedings. I think it is very sad to see these children with these. They miss out on so much if they don’t get to eat.

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ConnerC November 1, 2011 at 5:04 pm

very true i could not image all the food that we eat every day and not being able to ever eat one of my mom’s lemon cakes oh my!!!

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BLisenbey October 23, 2011 at 10:20 pm

In the past couple of weeks I have taken care of patients with tube feeds. It is interesting to actually see how the set up is placed for the actual feeds. I am always on the other side of things having to perform the feeds. It has been a long time since I have dealt with a PEG tube though. recently I have worked with nasogastric tube feeds.

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Jerrica Ballance April 5, 2011 at 12:57 am

I have experience with feeding tubes since i am a nurse. They are very helpful in maintaining a healthy nutrition status for people and reliable for them to get medications that they need if they are NPO. Learning about PEG tubes is very interesting and informative. You never know if it could be you or a family member that may end up with one some day.
-JB

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reimershk October 18, 2011 at 9:38 am

I’ve seen a lot of “kidney kids” who are on dialysis, so I’ve always seen the down-the-nose tube. (Thankfully, I never had a feeding tube, although I probably should have at one point.) This was an interesting alternative to that.

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SheDM March 31, 2011 at 1:53 pm

I too have never had any experience with tube feeding, so found the information interesting.

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J-H March 30, 2011 at 4:47 pm

All the videos were very interesting and very imformative to watch. It certainly helped me to understand the different types of feeding tubes and how they are administered. It just was sad to watch the different children having to do this for whatever reason it just seemed unfair.

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Barber JN October 25, 2011 at 9:53 pm

I think it would be really rough to have a feeding tube. I would never wish that on anyone and hope I never have to experience it for myself. These videos definitely shed new light on what patients with feeding tubes go through.

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B-N March 28, 2011 at 7:35 pm

I’ve always pictured the patients who would need a feeding tube would be infants, the elderly, coma induced patients and those in the ICU. I also thought that they were just used by going down the throat and into the stomach. I didn’t know there was more than one way.

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Co94dy7 April 10, 2017 at 5:35 pm

The feeding tube is quite different than I pictured it also.

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S-G March 21, 2011 at 12:23 am

I have never seen tube feedings before so this was interesting to me. They made it look so easy. s-g

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pharvey March 4, 2016 at 8:13 pm

I think in some ways this way of life does become easier or normal for them. I had some friends that had a young child with cerebral palsy and she had to be tube fed. The whole family took part in it even the 10 and 11 year old siblings. I was truly inspired with that situation. We have a hard time imagining it but for them it is their way of life.

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Ashleigh W. July 15, 2016 at 5:32 pm

I agree, she is a pro by now!

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R-D March 17, 2011 at 5:56 pm

Well, I’ve definitely learned something new; I always though that feeding tubes went in through the nose and down into the stomach. I guess some do but this is a whole different kind of apparatus. Very informative videos: nice to see “real” people sharing their experiences with the world.

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R-E March 16, 2011 at 5:27 pm

feeding tubes are a survial mode for most people. this is great video showing the details and issue associated with feeding tubes. there are a lot of problems with feeding tubes if they are not taken care of properly. Even death

RE

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GCHANG November 21, 2011 at 9:06 pm

i agree very informative video. Sometimes its better to accept it and move on, because for some people they werent always on feeding tubes. Its a great device to help those who can’t really eat/swallow their food by mouth.

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R-E March 16, 2011 at 5:25 pm

CS
i had a daughter on a feeding tube from birth till 18 months and they push us to wash our hands 3 to 4 times before we begin feedings, Im sure they we educated but some people get in to big of a hurry. I feel your pain.

RE

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E-A March 15, 2011 at 10:57 pm

This video gives me a whole different perspective towards life.I am ashamed of the little things i took for granted.These brave little girls are going through a hard time but they still have a smile on thier faces.PEG tube feedings are very helpful at times of very little options.As a nurse all i can say is ” please,please,please always check for placement before you put anything down a PEG tube”.I pray little Ainsley get s better soon.
EA

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SJ April 5, 2011 at 1:15 pm

I know…I just want to cry.

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Ashleigh W. July 15, 2016 at 5:34 pm

Ainsley is such a sweet girl, and she is brave. I hope that she can start eating orally soon.

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J-W March 15, 2011 at 5:11 pm

I didn’t know very much about tube feeding at all before I watched these videos. Very informative and very educating!

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K-H March 15, 2011 at 3:31 pm

The videos showed the different ways feeding tubes can be used. It is good to know there are ways to get the nutrients our bodies need if the situation ever arose. Medical technology has come a long way and will continue to improve. These types of situations cannot be avoided but there are dedicated individuals learning new ways for us to adapt with illnesses and their consequences.

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E-A March 15, 2011 at 11:00 pm

Yes i totally agree with you at how long medical technology has come.It is very impressive.Besides PEG tube feedings,there are even other alternatives to getting nutrients into the body.I LOVE SCIENCE!!!!!!!!!

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C-S March 15, 2011 at 12:30 pm

I have given tube feedings for years as a nurse, When I was a new nurse, I hated to give these feedings, now it is the easist way to feed a patient!!! The biggest problem I hace seen with this is aspiration Pneumonia and also the tube insertion site getting infected. I think the dad should have been wearing gloves, and not stick his bare possibley *dirty* hand ito his daughters sterile setup….. But I am just a nurse 😉 lol….

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J-W March 15, 2011 at 5:10 pm

I completely agree! I think if something is as serious as this, that sterilization is a major priority.

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SheDM March 31, 2011 at 1:59 pm

It look to me has if the parents have done it for so long that they have become relaxed and comfortable in doing the feeding. Lets just hope that they are taking sterilization precautions.

Ashleigh W. July 15, 2016 at 5:34 pm

I agree!

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SRS March 14, 2011 at 5:47 pm

I found the feeding tubes very interesting. I did not know that so many different types of illnesses required a person to need to have a tube placed. The procedure in placing it in one’s stomach was very explanatory. The little girl in the second video seemed fine with having to be hooked up to the machine every night and her willingness to help was priceless! It is amazing how children adapt to things so quickly and they learn so easily. Their minds are like little sponges! The third video made me want to cry. I felt bad for little Ainsley. She seemed well adapted but my heart just goes out to her. Again I am sure she too had adapted just fine with the process of the feedings each day. I liked the 2nd video with the machine to do it slowly seemed like it would be better on the child but at the mother in the third video stated she had done this several ways and none turned out any different.

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Lindsey Thompson November 9, 2015 at 6:21 pm

These videos are very informative about all the different types of feeding tubes. I liked how the little girl didn’t have a problem with it and wanted to help.

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jr March 14, 2011 at 3:17 pm

These videos are very informative. I did not know of the different ways feeding tubes could be done. What a great thing this is, although I hope I never need one or any of my family members, but at least I know if this should be the case oneday there is a way to maintain getting the right amounts of nutrients that our bodies need.

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SJ March 8, 2011 at 1:20 pm

I can not imagine having to live this way or having a child who did.

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jr March 14, 2011 at 3:18 pm

me either. i especially feel for the childern. It seems fo unfair to them .

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daviste November 10, 2011 at 9:02 pm

me either, it’s so sad.

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administrative assistant January 13, 2011 at 9:13 am

This is such a great resource that you are providing and you give it away for free. I enjoy seeing websites that understand the value of providing a prime resource for free. I truly loved reading your post. Thanks!

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Holly Bean December 3, 2010 at 5:24 pm

I think these videos are really good. I did not realize that so many patients need to be tube feed. I hope to be a nurse one day and these videos really taught me alot. It is amazing to me the different ways to insert the tube. It is also very cool to me how they have to start it in stages. It is really cool how far technology has come. It is sad that people using a tube feeding will never get to actually chew their food, but it is really awsome that we have the technology to help them even if they do have to miss out on a few things that we take for granted.

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Shawna Degler April 20, 2018 at 12:06 am

They do not get to savor the flavors of food like we do. It is very sad, but at least it is saving their lives.

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Laken Teague December 3, 2010 at 2:14 pm

it is amazing to she the different ways that a feeding tube was put into a person, also the different problems that causes a person to have a feeding tube. It is sad but uplifting at the same time to see how the little girl will always have the feeding tube but will always have a good diet.

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Taylor Beard December 2, 2010 at 4:00 pm

It is amazing how medical technology has improved so many aspects of health including the insertion and maintenance of a feeding tube. Patients who need this procedure can get the right amount and the proper kind of nutrients through a liquid diet. They are getting the “right” kinds of foods automatically through their tubes rather than making “food choices” that we make before each meal.

I feel sorry for them though. They miss out on the “tastes” of foods; they don’t get to savor the flavors we take for granted with each bite!

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Lindsey E December 1, 2010 at 1:34 pm

Wow..I really hope that I never have to have a feeding tube. It is amazing to me how we can do these things. Its just odd to think that something like that can be done. I take care of a little boy with cp, he has had a feeding tube most of his life until recently, there is a little whole on his stomach from where the feeding tube has been for so long.

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Krysten A November 29, 2010 at 11:26 pm

i didn’t know exactly how this was placed or anything…very interesting 😀

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Tyler B October 28, 2010 at 12:27 pm

I have personally never seen a feeding tube done or how you fed a person with a feeding tube. It was very intrersting and there was alot of information in these videos about tube feedings and I am sure it will help alot of us in the future!

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Glen L October 26, 2010 at 11:17 pm

It is amazing how far technology has come in the medical field. It is realy awsome and depressing to watch someone so young haft to use a feeding tube.On one hand it ables the patient to eat and survive and on the other you hate to haft to whatch someone use it such as the girl in the video.

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Lindsey E December 1, 2010 at 1:36 pm

It is sad. The little boy I take care of just recently got his removed, however it is still an every day struggle to get him to eat anything. He is eight years old and he looks like a five year old. He is so tiney but so precious. Makes you appreciate what you are able to do.

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Jessilyn R. October 25, 2010 at 3:41 pm

These videos were very informative and really helped me to realize how feeding tubes are put in place and how they work. It was neat to see an actual tube feeding being given to the little girl also. I never realized before either how many people may have to use feeding tubes but the video listed numerous reasons they may be used.

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vera, A October 23, 2010 at 10:27 am

very informative video.these videos gives me quite a bit of more info from what i learned in nursing school

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Lacey H. October 22, 2010 at 6:05 pm

I really like how the showed the different ways that a feeding tube was put into a person, also the different problems that causes a person to have a feeding tube. The video that really touched me was the last one because she was so cute and its really sad that she will always be on a feeding tube.

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wallaceba October 26, 2011 at 6:32 pm

I agree. She is cute and the mom seemed comfortable with the process and I liked the fact that sometimes she paced the feeding with the family meal. Eating is a social experience as well as necessary for nutritional needs. Including her is very important . Her being able to lick the lids in order to get the sensation of tasting was great.

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Madge C October 22, 2010 at 1:33 am

It takes a great mind to discover these types of methods, designed to keep us healthy in the times we can not do them for ourselves.

The little girl in the second video is so grown up for her age and brave too.

The third video was I want to say uncomfortable for me to watch. I just hate thinking of children having to go through something like this but then the flip side is thank God there are methods to insure the health of our loved ones.

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Jerrica Ballance April 5, 2011 at 12:54 am

I have to agree totally. It amazes me the methods people discover that keep us healthy and maintain function.
-JB

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Lauren D October 21, 2010 at 1:06 am

I did not know really anything about tube feeding until now. It is really sad to watch. Those kids are cute and hilarious though. I want to try and do something that could help or just put a smile on their faces. Kids are amazing and for these girls to go through what they do with the bravery that they do, it is an inspiration.

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reimershk October 18, 2011 at 9:41 am

I love all kids, but chronically ill children are especially special. I can’t imagine being a kid and not being able to eat… I was on the “dialysis diet” but that seems like a plus compared to what these little ones deal with. Such incredible kids!

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zdunlap April 12, 2018 at 12:34 am

I also did not know much and it is a shame for these kids to have to go through all of that just to get nutrients.

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Donnie H. October 20, 2010 at 10:07 pm

The videos were very informative but heartbreaking at the same time, because the children were having to be tube fed. However for the little girl to be able to feed herself was amazing. I agree that families should not put loved ones on feeding tubes because they don’t want to take the time to feed them.

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Lacey H. October 22, 2010 at 6:07 pm

It was very interesting how the little girl knew how to start and stop the feeding tube. She is so brave at a young age to be able to do that all by herself.

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vera, A October 23, 2010 at 10:30 am

it hurts my fellings to see kids go through such things.but i think God has a purpose 4 them.iam glad they are brave lil girls too.

Marcie G October 20, 2010 at 6:16 pm

Since I worked in nursing homes I have seen so many elderly with feeding tubes. Its hard to believe how many elderly really dont need it. But, How many family members want them on feeding tubes so they dont have to take time out of there busy day to come see or take the time to feed there family members. I have also seen people that have needed them like the ones who are in comas or who unable to move their hands or mouth. These videos are very informative and educational on feeding tubes.

Its very sad about children having to have a feeding tube but like the video said it may be necessary. The video was cool on seing how a little girl really knows how to do her own tube. Video 2.

Video 3: Ainsley was very cute but it was said that she will always have a feeding tube and will never really get to taste the good stuff. At least she does get her vitamins and nutrition that she needs to go.

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Ashley M October 20, 2010 at 5:10 pm

I never knew feeding tubes are mandatory in so many patients. I usually think of helpless elderly, trama, and coma patients. But esophogeal cancer, not absorbing or digesting nutrients, stroke, major surgery, burns, inflammation of pancreas, and bowel diease make feeding tubes critical for patients. I never knew there were different ways of insertion and different steps to start a feeding tube. Like first taking liquids from an IV then moving to clear liquids and formula from a PEG.

Video # 3 is the video that stood out to me. It’s amazing with technology that people unable to eat properly can still obtain a healthy and balanced meal. The little girl is a prime example she still obtained; supplements, vitiamns, veggies, fruits, meats, and protein. Even if it was through a feeding tube. Good information to know but, its sad that patients with perminaent feeding tubes with never get to actually eat ice cream, pizza, and french fries. I take taste for granted.

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Taylor Beard December 2, 2010 at 4:04 pm

Hey Ashley
I feel the same way, I hate the fact that these patients will never taste ice cream or any of the good food flavors we take for granted each day.

It is amazing how they can get a proper, well-balanced diet through a liquid diet. Their diet is probably more balanced than mine!

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devin r October 19, 2010 at 11:03 pm

I never really knew how feeding tubes were put in place or worked. I always just assumed they were shoved down peoples’ throats, and every time they needed food, it was sent down their throat. Glad to know I’m wrong. This made me realize there are other ways of doing it. I also imagined very old people or people in comas were the only ones who could benefit from tube feedings. Wrong again..

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Lauren D October 21, 2010 at 1:08 am

I agree there are just some things that you don’t put with another. We learn something new everyday. It makes you think about life and the differences in people. These kids are amazing.

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Spencer KA October 25, 2011 at 12:56 pm

I had no idea either, how they were put in place nor how they worked. I figured the same thing as well, and all I guess I can say is that’s what we get for assuming.

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LDorsey November 25, 2011 at 2:31 pm

The tube that’s put down through their nostril into their stomach is a NG tube! They are usually for suctioning out gastric contents, but can be used for feedings!

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D Beard October 19, 2010 at 2:33 pm

This is amazing how techology is helpful. A feeding tube is very helpful to those that are unable to eat on there own. The little girl at the end touched me. It was amazing how the nutrients that can come from a feeding tube.. Truely amazing.

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Koon KR October 28, 2011 at 12:38 pm

I agree with you on how it is so amazing. We are learning how to do NG tubes in nursing. It amazes me on how technology can help our health so much.

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TMann November 19, 2011 at 5:30 pm

I agree, it is amazing and I’m glad her parents take the time to actually puree her foods so she doesn’t live off canned foods and miss out on other nutrients

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Hill M November 22, 2011 at 11:09 am

I agree that little girl was amazing and such an inspriation. Really made me think about my children and how fortunate they are to be healthy.

acgill March 19, 2016 at 1:25 pm

I agree, I was really impressed with the healthy diet that her mother feeds her! She probably “eats” healthier than most kids her age!

atoney February 14, 2017 at 8:24 pm

I agree. They seemed to be very concerned about her getting those foods in her diet. Some only do the formula and nothing more. I could not imagine what it would be like to never “eat” my food.

Terrie H October 18, 2010 at 5:58 am

Seems to be some pretty good information here. I cannot pinpoint anything in particular that stuck out at me other than the little girl at the end who had a wonderful diet given through her through her tube. She had meat and real veggies where the others showed something like pediasure . At least it is good to know they can still get their nutrition through a tube.

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Ashley M November 2, 2010 at 5:21 pm

Its amazing that liquid through a tube can still give us the perfect amount of balance in our diets. And that people with them are almost heathier than people would can eat food whole.

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GilesCN November 15, 2011 at 11:15 am

Yes it is amazing! I had no idea that it gave the perfect amount! You’re right individuals with feeding tubes are actually a lot healther than people without them for the simple fact that they get the right nutritions daily while we tend to forget about the correct nutritions and eat what we want!

vcanea November 26, 2011 at 9:51 pm

I guess people that get food thru a tube dont have a choice but to eat healthy.

WhiteKD November 14, 2011 at 9:50 pm

Thats exactly what I thought. I was very impressed with contents of her tube feeding.

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Hamilton SJ November 26, 2011 at 12:02 pm

Technology is amazing when it works properly! There have been so many advances in the medical field!

DMidgett October 17, 2010 at 4:56 pm

I found it very interesting to learn how feeding tubes are placed in patients. It was also interesting seeing how they are used and the different types. My daughter says what you learn in nursing school doesn’t compare to actually taking care of someone with feeding tube. I have not ever been around anyone with a feeding tube.

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BLisenbey October 23, 2011 at 10:18 pm

this i true. What they teach you in nursing school does not really prepare you for taking care of patients with tube feedings. I guess that is why they also say they provide the foundation and most of your learning happens after graduation. After i started working I understood what that meant.

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Aokeane November 2, 2017 at 11:09 pm

life lessons teach differently than text books. I have a great respect for nurses and what they do.

srussell October 10, 2016 at 4:03 pm

I have been around two people that required tube feeding and each was totally different from each other.

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