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Naso gastric tube Feeding

Date published 13 October 2024

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Enteral Feeding Support for NDIS Workers

As an NDIS support worker, you play a crucial role in assisting participants who require enteral feeding. This article will provide you with essential information to deliver safe and effective enteral feeding support.

 

A person eats food, it is digested as it goes down the digestive system of the body, as shown in the video below. 

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As an NDIS support worker, you play a crucial role in assisting participants who require enteral feeding. This article will provide you with essential information to deliver safe and effective enteral feeding support.


What is Enteral Feeding?
Enteral feeding, also known as tube feeding, is a method of providing nutrition directly into the gastrointestinal tract for individuals who cannot eat or drink normally (NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, 2022). This can be due to various medical conditions affecting swallowing, digestion, or nutrient absorption.

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Types of Enteral Feeding Tubes:

  1. Nasogastric tube (NGT): Inserted through the nose into the stomach

  2. Gastrostomy tube: Inserted directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall

  3. Jejunostomy tube: Inserted into the small intestine

(Western Australia Country Health Service [WACHS], 2019)

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​Key Skills for Enteral Feeding Support

As an NDIS support worker, you should be able to:

  1. Understand and follow the participant's support plan

  2. Communicate effectively with the participant about their needs and preferences

  3. Prepare the environment and equipment for feeding

  4. Position the participant correctly for feeding

  5. Set up and operate feeding equipment safely

  6. Monitor the feeding process and respond to any issues

  7. Maintain proper hygiene and infection control practices

  8. Recognize and respond to potential complications

  9. Keep accurate records of feeds and observations

(NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, 2022; NDIS, 2021)

Prevent Infections.png

Preparing for Enteral Feeding

Before starting a feed, ensure you:

  1. Review the participant's support plan and specific requirements

  2. Check communication preferences and use appropriate aids if needed

  3. Gather all necessary equipment and consumables

  4. Prepare the feeding area, ensuring cleanliness and comfort

  5. Wash your hands thoroughly and wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE)

(NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, 2022)

Implementing the Support Plan

When providing enteral feeding support:

  1. Position the participant as directed in their support plan

  2. Follow hygiene and infection control procedures

  3. Set up the feeding equipment according to instructions

  4. Monitor the feeding rate, flow, and volume of formula

  5. Observe the participant for any signs of discomfort or complications

  6. Respond promptly to any alarms or equipment malfunctions

  7. Clean and maintain feeding equipment as required

(NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, 2022; NDIS, 2021)

Key Points to Remember

  • Always follow the participant's individual support plan

  • Maintain proper hygiene and infection control practices

  • Monitor the participant closely during and after feeding

  • Report any concerns or complications to the appropriate health practitioner

  • Keep accurate records of all feeding sessions

(NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, 2022; NDIS, 2021)

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Common Risks and Complications

Be aware of and watch for these potential issues:

  1. Tube displacement or dislodgement

  2. Infection at the tube insertion site

  3. Blockage of the feeding tube

  4. Aspiration (formula entering the lungs)

  5. Dehydration or overhydration

  6. Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

  7. Skin irritation around the tube site

(NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, 2022; WACHS, 2019)

It is important that any person administering enteral feeding have the necessary skills and training..

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When to Seek Help

Contact the appropriate health practitioner immediately if you observe:

  • Signs of infection (redness, swelling, discharge, or fever)

  • Persistent nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

  • Severe abdominal pain or distension

  • Difficulty breathing or signs of aspiration

  • Bleeding from the tube site

  • Tube blockage that cannot be cleared using approved methods

Remember, your role is crucial in ensuring the safety and well-being of participants receiving enteral feeding support. Always prioritize the participant's comfort and dignity throughout the feeding process (NDIS, 2021). Contact your supervisor who may guide and support you to contact the doctor.

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Reviewing and Updating Support​

Regularly check with the participant to:

  1. Discuss any changes needed in their enteral feeding support

  2. Identify and document any issues with the current support plan

  3. Support them in providing feedback and requesting changes to their plan as needed

(NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission, 2022)

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Conclusion

Providing enteral feeding support requires attention to detail, good communication, and a focus on the participant's safety and comfort. By following these guidelines and staying up-to-date with training, you can ensure high-quality care for people who rely on enteral feeding (NDIS, 2021).

Remember, this article provides general guidance. Always refer to the participant's specific support plan and seek advice from qualified health professionals when needed

If you require a certificate, you may access the training options available below.

Reviews

PEG Tube Online Training

This training covers nasogastric (NG) feeding procedures. You will learn to  manage NG tubes, administer feedings, and monitor for complications. Enhance your NG feeding skills by enrolling in this comprehensive training today.

Startup Development Team

Online training, with interactive activities and resources. Downloadable certificate. 

Mode of Delivery: eLearning

​1 hour (self-paced)

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Understanding how to properly use and care for PEG tubes is important for ensuring the safety and well-being of clients. This training equips carers, support workers with the necessary skills to administer PEG tube feeding, maintain hygiene, and report complications in a timely manner.

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Objective:

The course aims to provide practical knowledge about Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Tubes (PEG Tubes). This training addresses the need for accurate and comprehensive understanding of PEG tube care to enhance patient safety and care quality.

Virtual Team Meeting

Feeding using a Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Tubes (PEG Tube)

Mode of Delivery: In-Person

Duration: 2 hours

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Target Audience: This in-person training is designed for carers, community support workers, 

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Objective:

The workshop aims to provide practical knowledge and hands-on experience with Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Tubes (PEG Tubes). This training addresses the need for comprehensive understanding of PEG tube care to enhance patient safety and care quality.

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This workshop focuses on building hands-on competency in using Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) Tubes. Participants will gain practical experience, enhancing patient care and safety through direct application of skills.

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Topics Covered:

The workshop includes interactive sessions on:

  • Anatomy of the digestive system and PEG tube components

  • Practical sessions on oral hygiene and tube site care

  • Role-play scenarios for different feeding regimes

  • Hands-on practice in feeding and medication administration

  • Identifying and addressing tube-related complications

  • Implementing effective nutrition and hydration strategies

  • Understanding psychosocial dynamics in PEG tube care

  • Review and application of safety protocols and reporting procedures

  • and more

 

Training Outcomes:

Upon completion, participants will:

  • Demonstrate practical skills in PEG tube management

  • Apply real-time problem-solving strategies for common issues

  • Show proficiency in hygiene and infection control during tube handling.


Gain hands-on skills in PEG tube management. 

Group Bookings

Book training for a group. Book for either online or onsite training. This also provides  access to discounts.

Individual Bookings

Book training for individuals, Online or onsite training.

© 2024 by Precise Health Solutions.

Townsville, Perth Australia.

Tel: 0413579982/  0422055636

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