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HomeResources and SupportA-Z resourcesNG Feeding TubesAt home tips for nasogastric (NG) feeding tubes

At home tips for nasogastric (NG) feeding tubes

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A nasogastric (NG) tube is a long, thin, hollow tube which is inserted into the nose, down the throat and into the stomach. You can use the tube to feed your child if they are unable to take enough food by mouth or if they are not safely able to take food by mouth. Liquid feeds pass through the tube into the stomach.

While your child’s NG tube is in place, it is very important to follow the detailed feeding and care instructions given to you by your healthcare team. Here are some additional tips to help you manage your child’s NG tube at home:

Wash your hands

It is very important to wash your hands before handling your child’s NG tube and while preparing and giving their feed. It is one of the most important ways to prevent and control the spread of infection!

Care for the NG tube site

  • Make sure the tube is securely taped in position and always replace tape if it appears to be loose or soiled – this is to avoid the tube coming out unexpectedly.
  • Use a soft, hypoallergenic tape (such as Hypafix) on your child’s face to secure the tube.
  • Check the skin underneath the tape on your child’s face daily for any irritation or reaction to the tape.
  • Alternate nostrils each time you re-insert the NG tube to help keep the skin on each cheek healthy.
  • Make sure that the NG tube is not taped too tightly, as this can cause irritation to the nostril.

Keep the tube secure

Taking good care of securing your child’s NG tube will help prevent the tube from coming out unexpectedly. It is important to be mindful of your child’s NG tube at all times, especially when moving or handling your child.

If your baby or small child is trying to pull their NG tube out, you can:

  • Try putting mittens or socks on their hands, especially at night
  • Thread the NG tube under their clothing so that they can’t access it

Always check the NG tube placement

It is important to make sure that the NG tube remains securely in the stomach before each feeding or medication administration

When to verify NG tube placement:

  • Before giving any feeds, flushes, or medications
  • When a new NG is inserted
  • If you are concerned that the NG may have moved/changed positions
  • Any new vomiting, coughing, choking, or change in breathing

How to verify NG tube placement:

  • Check the external measurement of the tube, as this should not change
  • Verify tube placement with pH test strip.

 

 
 
 

 

Types of Equipment

NG tubes

There are many different types of NG tubes, and you may not be able to purchase the same type of tube that you were using while in hospital.

When to change the tube:

  • Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Plastic Tube: every 3 days

  • Silastic/Polyurethane Tube: every 30 days

  • Weighted NG tube: every 30 days

Feeding Pump/Bags 

If you are using a Kangaroo Joey feeding pump, it is important that you use the Joey feeding bags with it (these are slightly different than the bags that are used while you are admitted in CHEO). If you are using bags that you got from the hospital, your at-home feeding pump may not give accurate feed amounts.

Always make sure to:
• measure the amount of feed that you put into the feeding bag before starting the pump
• clear the “volume infused” before starting a new feed

Caring for your supplies at home

Keeping your supplies clean prevents serious illness caused by bacterial growth.

Feeding bags: to be replaced 1-2 times a week

After each feed:

  • rinse the bag with water and allow it to air dry

Once daily:

  • Wash the feeding bag in a clean sink with warm, soapy water, rinse it, and let hang to air dry

For deeper cleaning:

  • clean with 1:1 vinegar/water solution then rinse and hang to air dry

Replace the feeding bag if:

  • it smells sour or looks cloudy/dirty
  • it gets stretched from the pump, as it won’t work well with the pump if this occurs

Syringes: can be used for up to 7 days before replacement if following cleaning instructions

After each use:

  • Rinse the syringe with water and allow it to air dry

Once daily:

  • Take the syringe apart and wash in a clean sink with warm, soapy water, rinse, and let air dry
  • Once dry, store in a clean, dry container with a lid until they need to be used again

Replace the syringe if:

  • The markings are no longer visible
  • There is any damage to the syringe
  • There is stiffness when using the syringe
  • If you are unable to rinse between uses

pH strips: can be purchased at KidCare Pharmacy at CHEO

  • Keep in a cool, dry place.
  • Always close/seal the container after use.
  • Double check the expiry on the container, and do not use if expired
  • Tip: with clean scissors, you can cut the strips in 2 length-wise to double the use of one container! 

Funding Tips

Depending on the reason your child or youth uses an NG tube and how long they will need it, they may be eligible for the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) funding, provided by the Ontario Ministry of Health.

This program can assist with the cost of purchasing a feeding pump and feeding supplies, if eligible. Unfortunately, the funding provided will not cover the full cost.

If you have private insurance coverage, you can also check to see if these costs can be covered by your plan. If you need help with paying for your supplies, please talk to your Social Worker

Who can I contact with questions?

Ask your RRN about:

  • Weight
  • NG tube supplies
  • Feeding tube placement/ site care
  • Oral feeding

Ask your Dietitian about:

  • Weight
  • Formula
  • Oral feeding

Ask your Occupational Therapist about:

  • Oral stimulation while tube feeding
  • Oral feeding

Ask your Primary Care Doctor about:

  • Weight
  • Formula
  • Skin problems
  • Oral feeding

Ask your Community Nursing Support Service about:

  • Tube feeding at school or daycare

Ask your medical supply store about:

  • Issues with your feeding pump
  • Ordering more supplies
#BestLife for every child and youth
2024-03-18 | P6152

This reference is for educational purposes only. If you have any questions, ask your health-care provider.

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