Name of the Procedure:

Enteral Feeding Supply Kit: Syringe Fed, Per Day
Common terms: Enteral feeding, syringe feeding Medical term: B4034

Summary

Enteral feeding using a syringe-fed supply kit is a method of providing nutrition to individuals who cannot eat by mouth. It involves using a syringe and various components to deliver liquid nutrition directly to the stomach or intestines. This method ensures that patients receive the essential nutrients needed for their health and well-being.

Purpose

Enteral feeding is used to manage conditions where individuals cannot consume food orally. The primary goals are to ensure adequate nutrition, maintain weight, and improve overall health. It is especially critical in patients with conditions affecting the digestive system, neurological disorders, or severe illnesses that impair swallowing.

Indications

• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
• Neurological disorders (e.g., stroke, ALS)
• Gastrointestinal diseases (e.g., Crohn's disease, short bowel syndrome)
• Severe malnutrition
• Head and neck cancers
• Post-operative recovery from significant surgeries

Preparation

Patients typically need an assessment by a healthcare professional to determine the suitability of enteral feeding. Pre-procedure preparation may include:

• Checking current nutritional status
• Reviewing ongoing medications
• Ensuring the enteral feeding route (e.g., gastrostomy tube) is properly placed
• No specific fasting is required unless advised by a healthcare provider

Procedure Description

1. Assemble the enteral feeding supply kit, including the feeding syringe, administration set tubing, dressings, and tape.
2. Fill the syringe with the prescribed enteral formula.
3. Connect the syringe to the feeding tube.
4. Slowly administer the formula by pushing the syringe plunger.
5. Follow the feeding with an irrigation of the tube using another syringe filled with water to flush it.
6. Secure the tube with dressing and tape if necessary.
7. Dispose of or clean the syringe and tubing as per the guidance.

Duration

The administration process typically takes about 15-30 minutes depending on the volume of the formula.

Setting

The procedure can be performed at home, in a hospital, or in an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

In a medical setting, nurses or healthcare providers may assist initially. Over time, patients or caregivers can learn to handle the feeding process independently.

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Tube dislodgement, blockage, or infection at the insertion site.
• Rare Risks: Aspiration pneumonia if the formula enters the lungs. Management includes ensuring proper hygiene, correct tube placement, and prompt medical attention if complications arise.

Benefits

• Ensures continuous nutritional support for patients unable to eat by mouth.
• Helps maintain or improve the patient's nutritional status and overall health.
• Benefits can be realized immediately after the initiation of feeding.

Recovery

Post-procedure care involves:

• Regular flushing of the feeding tube with water to prevent blockages.
• Monitoring the tube site for any signs of infection.
• Regular follow-up appointments to assess nutritional status and adjust the feeding regimen as needed. Recovery is ongoing as long as enteral feeding is required.

Alternatives

• Oral Nutrition: If possible, but not feasible for many requiring enteral feeding.
• Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) Tubes: For long-term feeding needs, more invasive than syringe feeding.
• Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN): Nutrition delivered intravenously, typically for short-term or when GI tract use is not possible. Higher risk of complications.

Pros and Cons

• Enteral feeding (syringe-fed) is less invasive, relatively simple, and can be managed at home compared to PEG or TPN.

Patient Experience

Patients may initially feel discomfort during feeding but typically adapt over time. Pain management is usually minimal, as the procedure is not highly invasive. Comfort measures include ensuring a correct flow rate and maintaining good hygiene to prevent infections.