Tube Feeding
摘要
At times, nasogastric tube (NGT) feeding may be indicated for a patient with ARFID. In this approach, a thin, flexible tube is inserted into the nostril such that liquid nutrition can be introduced directly into the stomach. Feeds can be administered in two main ways: continuous and bolus. Continuous feeds are provided by a pump giving a measured rate over several hours, while bolus feeds are often administered by gravity and given more quickly. Bolus feeds can approximate a meal, while continuous feeds are given much more slowly and may be useful in those experiencing a lot of GI symptoms. When possible, it is optimal to avoid tube feeding in ARFID patients Nasogastric tube (NGT) feedingin ARFID patients. However, when the NG tube is needed it can be a tool for weight gain and nutritional progress. When this tool is simultaneously paired with treatment that supports improving by mouth nutrition, the NG tube can assist the patient in building the tolerance for a higher caloric volume. Additionally, when the patient cannot eat enough consistently to support their health, or the family is truly not able to support sufficient feeding, a feeding tube may be the most ethical choice in ensuring that a patient meets their developmental potential.