Enteral Feeding Care (J-tube/G-tube)

Understanding Enteral Feeding Care

Enteral feeding—delivering nutrition directly to the stomach or intestines through a tube—is necessary for many patients who cannot safely eat by mouth. According to the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN), millions of Americans rely on tube feeding for their nutrition, requiring specialized care and monitoring.

At Edmonds Villa, we provide comprehensive enteral feeding care that goes beyond simply administering formula. Our trained nursing staff understands the complexities of tube feeding and provides skilled care that maintains nutrition while preventing complications.

Types of Feeding Tubes We Manage

Gastrostomy Tubes (G-tubes)

G-tubes are placed directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall. They may be placed surgically or endoscopically (PEG tubes). We provide site care, feeding administration, and monitoring for G-tube patients.

Jejunostomy Tubes (J-tubes)

J-tubes deliver nutrition directly to the small intestine, bypassing the stomach. They're often used for patients with gastroparesis or other stomach issues. J-tube feedings typically require slower, continuous administration which our staff manages carefully.

Gastrojejunostomy Tubes (GJ-tubes)

GJ-tubes have ports for both the stomach and intestine, allowing flexibility in feeding method. Our staff is trained to manage both ports appropriately.

Our Enteral Feeding Care

Feeding Administration

We administer tube feedings according to physician-prescribed schedules and formulas:

• Bolus feedings: Larger amounts given several times daily via syringe or gravity
• Continuous feedings: Steady flow via feeding pump, often overnight
• Combination approaches: As prescribed for individual needs

Tube Site Care

Proper care of the tube insertion site prevents infection and skin breakdown. We provide daily site cleaning, dressing changes as needed, and monitoring for signs of infection or irritation.

Tube Maintenance

We follow protocols for tube flushing, rotation (when appropriate), and monitoring for blockages or deterioration. Early detection of tube problems allows timely intervention before serious issues develop.

Nutrition Monitoring

We monitor residents' tolerance of feedings, watching for signs of aspiration, nausea, diarrhea, or other issues. Weight monitoring helps ensure adequate nutrition. We coordinate with dietitians to adjust formulas and rates as needed.

Why Patients Need Enteral Feeding

Residents may require tube feeding due to various conditions including:

• Dysphagia (swallowing difficulty) from stroke, neurological conditions, or head/neck cancer
• Dementia when eating becomes unsafe or inadequate
• Neurological conditions like ALS, Parkinson's, or MS that affect swallowing
• Head and neck cancers or treatments affecting the mouth/throat
• Gastroparesis or other GI motility disorders
• Chronic illness requiring supplemental nutrition

The Mayo Clinic provides comprehensive information about when and why feeding tubes may be recommended.

Comprehensive Care for Tube-Fed Residents

At Edmonds Villa, tube feeding care is integrated into comprehensive care planning. We address:

Oral Care

Even when not eating by mouth, oral care remains essential. We provide regular mouth care to prevent infection, maintain comfort, and preserve oral tissue health.

Aspiration Prevention

We follow positioning protocols during and after feedings to reduce aspiration risk. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association emphasizes proper positioning as key to safe tube feeding.

Quality of Life

Having a feeding tube doesn't mean giving up enjoyment and social connection. We include tube-fed residents in mealtimes and activities, maintaining social engagement that contributes to well-being.

Family Education

We help families understand tube feeding care, answer questions, and provide guidance on visiting and interacting with tube-fed loved ones.