Frequently asked questions about tube feeding in children

Is eating by mouth better than tube feeding?
No. Tube feeding contains all the nutrients your child needs, such as vitamins and minerals. It is important that your child gets enough nutrients to cope as well as possible with treatment.

Is it a problem if my child needs tube feeding for a long time?
No, it’s not a problem if your child needs tube feeding for an extended period. As soon as possible, the dietitian will gradually reduce the amount of tube feeding. Then your child can start eating and drinking again step by step.

Will my child still be able to eat after having tube feeding for a long time?
Very young children still need to learn how to use their mouth and tongue properly to eat and drink. When a child receives tube feeding, they may have less opportunity to practice sucking, swallowing, biting, and chewing. Talking may also develop a bit more slowly.

If needed, your doctor can refer your child to a speech therapist. A speech therapist helps children with mouth movements needed for eating, drinking, and speaking.

What can I do if my child doesn’t want to go to school with a feeding tube?
The tube needs to stay in place, but you can adjust the times when your child receives tube feeding. For example, you can choose to give tube feeding at night. That way your child doesn’t have to take a backpack with feeding equipment to school.

It also helps to explain to the teacher and classmates why your child has a tube, especially if it’s visible. A child life specialist from the hospital can help you think this through and support you in preparing this conversation with the class.

Does tube feeding at night affect my child’s sleep?
It’s not harmful for your child to receive tube feeding at night. It gives more room during the day to eat by mouth. Sometimes children sleep a bit less well in the first few days because they need time to get used to the tube feeding. If it lasts longer, contact your nurse or doctor.

What should I do if the tube gets blocked?
Flush the tube with 3–5 ml of lukewarm water using a 10 ml syringe. If you can’t clear the blockage, call your home care nurse. They can remove the tube and insert a new one. This can also be done at the hospital if your child already has an appointment soon.

My child is eating better. Can we start reducing the tube feeding?
Yes, if your child is eating more each day, tube feeding can be reduced. Discuss this with your child’s dietitian or doctor.

My child feels nauseous or has diarrhea. Could this be caused by the tube feeding?
Nausea or diarrhea usually happens because of treatment, but sometimes it can be related to tube feeding. In that case, the dietitian can check if another type of tube feeding is better for your child.

Nausea or diarrhea can also be caused by hygiene issues. Always wash your hands before giving tube feeding. A pack of tube feeding that has been open for too long or has become too warm can also cause symptoms.

Sources:
ten Have, H. et al. (2022). Handbook of Nutrition in Cancer Care (3rd edition). Utrecht: De Tijdstroom.