Missed Feedings
Blocked Tube
Dehydration can be a serious problem . Be sure to take in the amount of water your doctor or dietitian ordered for you each day .
• You may need to increase your daily water intake when :
– The weather is hot and humid . – You are perspiring heavily . – You have diarrhea . – You are running a fever . – Your urine is dark in color .
• Talk to your doctor , nurse , or dietitian to find out how much extra water to take each day .
• Weigh yourself once a week . If you lose more than 5 pounds in a week , call your doctor or nurse .
• Call your doctor if you have a strong thirst and a dry mouth that do not go away .
Missed Feedings
At times you may miss a feeding or not be able to get in the planned amount for a day . This should not be a problem unless it occurs often , or if you have diabetes .
• If you are on a cycle feeding , you can extend your feeding time .
• Do not try to make up a missed feeding by doubling your next feeding or increasing the rate that your formula is running . Too much formula , in too short a time , can cause cramping and stomach upset .
• Check your blood sugar if you have diabetes .
Blocked Tube
If you find that the feeding will not go in or the flow is very slow , the feeding tube may be blocked .
• Check the length of the tubing to be sure there are no kinks . Also check that there are no clamps on the tubing that may be blocking the flow .
• Next , feel the length of the feeding tube to see if you can feel any bumps in the tube . Sometimes formula or medicine can clump together to block the tube .
– Using two fingers , squeeze the tube between your fingers , and then release it to break up the clump inside the tube .
– Start at one end and move along the length of the tube , squeezing and releasing as you go to see if the tube will open up .
• Do not use any tool or object to poke inside the tube or to squeeze the tube . This could result in damage to the tube that would mean the tube would have to be replaced .
• If you have tried to clear the tube without success , call your nurse or doctor .
Starting tube feedings can feel challenging , but once you have done it for a few days it will become easier . Talk with your doctor or nurse about any questions or concerns .
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