Frequently Asked Questions On Enteral Pumps

The best position for tube feeding is to Sit up in a chair during the procedure. If you’re getting your tube feeding while in bed, use a wedge pillow to prop yourself up to at least 45 degrees.

• Always reclamp your feeding tube before removing your catheter tip syringe to avoid leakage.
• Move the clamp on your feeding tube to avoid permanent kinking of the tube.
• To avoid clogging, always flush your feeding tube with the amount of water recommended by your NP or dietitian (usually 30 to 60 mL) before and after:
  - Each feeding. 
  - Taking each medication. 
  - Taking additional clear liquids.
• If you aren’t using your feeding tube daily, flush it with 60 mL of water at least once a day.

Some of the common problems faced by tube fed patients are Constipation, bloating, nausea, stomach cramps, or diarrhea

Contact your healthcare provider

• If you see any of the following at your insertion site:
  - Bleeding that soaks a small gauze pad 
  - Pus or drainage with a foul smell 
  - Redness 
  - Swelling 
  - Increased pain that doesn’t go away with medication
• Feel too full after feedings
• Have swelling in your abdomen
• Have nausea or vomiting for more than 24 hours
• Have bloating, stomach cramps, or diarrhea for more than 24 hours
• Haven’t had a bowel movement in 2 days
• Have hard and dry bowel movements
• Have any changes in your bowel movement, such as in the color, consistency, frequency, or amount.
• Have any changes in your urine, such as in the color, frequency, or amount.
• Have a temperature of 101° F (38.3° C) or higher
• Have chills
• Gain more than 5 pounds (2.3 kilograms) per week
• Lose more than 2 pounds (.90 kilograms) per week
• Have swelling of your feet, legs, hands, or face
• Are dizzy
• Have difficulty breathing