TUBE FEEDING (GAVAGE FEEDING)

INDICATIONS:
1. Unconscious clients
2. Client with condition in the mouth which make swallowing or chewing difficult.

EQUIPMENTS:
50 ml bulb syringe
Glass with calibration
Prescribed feeding solution 30-50 ml water
Small towel
Stethoscope

PROCEDURE
1. Assemble the equipment including the feeding solution.
R: Cold feeding may cause vasoconstriction and cramping

2. Wash hands well and dry

3. Bring the equipment to the bedside and explain the procedure to the client/relative

4. Inspect and palpate client’s abdomen for distention

5. Place the client in high fowler’s position or a slightly elevated right side lying position is acceptable. Spread the small towel across the client’s chest.
R: This will enhance the solution’s gravitational flow and prevent aspiration. Towel protects client’s gown and bed from spillage.

6. Detach the clamp of the NGT and attach the syringe to the opened end of tube. Aspirate all the stomach contents and measure the amount.
R: To evaluate the absorption of last feeding

7. Check if tube is in place.
R: To prevent aspiration

8. Remove the bulb and reinstill the measured aspirated gastric contents via the syringe barrel.
R: Re - instilling the aspirated gastric content will prevent loss of electrolytes & gastric juices

9. Pour the feeding solution into the barrel. Raise or lower the syringe if you need to adjust the flow to ensure a slow instillation of the feeding.
R: To prevent instillation of air into client’s stomach.

10. Have client remain in fowler’s position for 45-60 minutes.
R: For better absorption and prevention of aspiration.

11. Do after care of equipment.

12. Record the procedure and include:
a. Amount of specific feeding formula
b. Time it was given
c. Describe reaction of client