Feeding Tube

Learn about the reasons why a feeding tube may be inserted and discontinued, and weigh the pros and cons of this life-sustaining treatment. Get informed with our latest article.

Feeding Tube
Feeding Tubes LIfe Sustaining versus Curative

Question:

What stage will the feeding tube be removed?

-Sharon

Response:

Sharon, you are asking me about when a feeding tube is removed.  I do not know if you are asking if a person with dementia will have a feeding tube removed. Or if this is a person dealing with cancer and utilizing a feeding tube until they recover.

I am going to explain that a feeding tube is a life sustaining treatment in some cases. It is not a cure for a condition.

There are many reasons why a feeding tube is inserted. There are many different reasons why a person may have a feeding tube. There are many reasons that they are discontinued. I hope this article will help you. Please feel free to give me specific info.

Visit this link for:

Pro’s and Cons on Feeding Tubes

Feeding Tubes LIfes Sustaining versus Curative

When it comes to elderly individuals who need a feeding tube, the decision to place a life sustaining versus curative measure must be carefully considered. A life sustaining measure is when the goal of placing the feeding tube is to improve quality of life and help a patient gain nutrition. A curative measure, on the other hand, is when there is an expectation that the placement of a feeding tube will cure an illness or condition.

It can be difficult to determine which type of measure should be taken, but discussing these options with your healthcare provider can help guide you in making an informed decision. Both measures have their own set of associated risks and benefits so it is important to understand them before proceeding further.  Additionally, it’s important to take into account the elderly patient’s lifestyle and needs when considering the best option.

💡
Have more questions? Check out the Frequently Asked Question section of the website. You will find a lot of different questions answered directly.

What is a PEG Tube?

PEG stands for Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy. A PEG tube is a type of feeding tube that is inserted directly into the stomach through an endoscope, and it is commonly used when continuous or long-term enteral nutrition is needed. A PEG tube can be used by those who are unable to swallow or digest food properly, such as elderly individuals with swallowing difficulties or people with certain conditions that affect their ability to eat.

Potential complications associated with PEG tubes include infection of the insertion site, bleeding from the insertion site, aspiration pneumonia, peritonitis and other gastrointestinal issues. It’s important to report any changes in health status to your healthcare team as soon as possible so they can provide the necessary support.

Diane Carbo, RN

I thought that this was a good place to provide information on the types and needs for feeding tubes

💡
Have a story about your concerns about a feeding tube? Please share here? Help others realize that they are not alone. Submit Your Caregiver Story

💡
Do you need help caring for a loved one?

Our Resources section can help you find the information and tools that you need. We have courses, videos, checklists, guidebooks, cheat sheets, how-to guides and more.

You can get started by clicking on the link below. We know that taking care of a loved one is hard work, but with our help you can get the support that you need.

Click here to go to Resources Section now!


You might also like this article:

Pros and Cons of Feeding Tubes in Elderly | Caregiver Relief
Discover the benefits and drawbacks of feeding tubes for elderly patients with this comprehensive guide.