Using An Eating Tube For The Infant

An infant can need an eating tube when it is unable to eat or drink on its own. Some infants who have not developed the strength to swallow the drinks as yet need it. There can be other reasons when this tube becomes necessary. The child may be suffering from a respiratory issue. Electrolyte imbalance or lack of it can make feeding difficult. Gastrointestinal or abdominal defects cause problems. The child is yet to develop the swallowing reflex or has weak sucking ability. Its weight gain may be irregular or lower than the standard for its age.

The infant feeding tube becomes necessary in all such instances. It is important to look for any problem when this tube is used. It can be misplaced causing difficulties in breathing. Problems like coughing, vomiting, slow breathing are indications that the child is facing issues due to the wrong tube placement. Read the instruction that comes with the tube. The nurse will measure properly when preparing the tube for feeding. This tube is an important tool in feeding infants who cannot drink or eat by self. Follow all instructions carefully to avoid the risks.