

Follow your doctor's instructions for how much formula to use for each feeding.Wash the top of the can of formula before you open it. Wash your hands before you handle the tube and formula.Make sure that the tube-feeding formula is at room temperature.Your doctor or dietitian will help you find the right formula to use. For most people, a milk shake type of formula that you can buy in a can works best for tube feeding. And the food needs to be the correct thickness so the tube doesn't clog. It's important that the food you use for tube feeding have the right blend of nutrients for you. How do you use and care for a feeding tube? Using the tube for feeding Making tube feeding less of a mystery may help you make it a part of your daily life. The first step is learning all you can about how the tube works and how to avoid problems. Adjusting to using a feeding tube takes time.Keeping the tube clean is very important.The food is a mixture (formula) made up of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Foods, liquids, and medicines are given using the tube.After the surgery, you'll have a 6- to 12-inch tube coming out of your belly.

A feeding tube is inserted during a surgery.You'll need to learn how to use and care for the tube, and how to avoid common problems. Having a feeding tube means learning new skills and adopting new routines. The tube is surgically inserted into your stomach and is used to give food, liquids, and medicines.ĭepending on why you need a feeding tube, you may have it for several weeks or months or for the rest of your life. If you're unable to eat, or if you have an illness that makes it hard to swallow food, you may need a feeding tube. Your body needs nutrition to stay strong and help you live a healthy life.
