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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is It Okay To Use The Feeding Tube At Home?

My question is about feeding tubes for elderly. Can you help me with that? Are they difficult to put the access into the body? I do understand it would be done by a physician. Is it highly possible to be able to use one at home if you have a competent caretaker? Are complications a frequent happening?
Mon, 2 Jun 2014
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Geriatrics Specialist,  's  Response
Hi,

The history given is very limited. Type of feeding tube and reason in the elderly are very important.
Competent caretaker can definitely do it eventhough difficult without training but risk of tube dis-lodgement, dysfunction and infections are very much present.
caregiver needs to have a proper training in caring of tube, hygiene issues, safety and have problem solving abilities.

Yes, complications are a frequent happening at home although not life threatening even with well trained care giver.

Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further clarifications, I will be here to help.
Dr. Prakash H M
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Is It Okay To Use The Feeding Tube At Home?

Hi, The history given is very limited. Type of feeding tube and reason in the elderly are very important. Competent caretaker can definitely do it eventhough difficult without training but risk of tube dis-lodgement, dysfunction and infections are very much present. caregiver needs to have a proper training in caring of tube, hygiene issues, safety and have problem solving abilities. Yes, complications are a frequent happening at home although not life threatening even with well trained care giver. Hope I have answered your query. If you have any further clarifications, I will be here to help. Dr. Prakash H M