Lots of talk happening on different enteral feeding methods. Here is a thread to describe each and their ideal usages. #RDChat #WhatRDsDl 1/
Continuous (pump assisted): requires feeding bag (feed&flush bag or RTH allows both to be given via pump) & pump. Typically used for ICU, j-tubes or G who🙅🏻♀️ tolerate bolus. Rate ordered is infused over the full hour (eg 60mL/hr infused 60mL over 1 hour) 2/ #WhatRDsDo #RDChat
Keep in mind that any volume of formula via pump is given over the entire hour, whereas a flush via pump is usually given in one quick bolus. This can sometimes lead to cramping, dumping esp in j tube patients. Smaller, more frequent flushes are helpful. 3/#WhatRDsDo #RDChat
Continuous (gravity): requires single feed bag & ability to hang bag directly above pt. Typically used in home j tube pts where pumps may not be covered by insurance &/or pt can not afford pump (US). Cont’d 4/ #WhatRDsDo #RDChat
Continuous (gravity) can also be used during pump shortage. Drip titrations rates are ideal for inpt setting where a more exact rate is needed. Pt at home can titrate the roller ball(see pic) to tolerance. Flushes for this method are always done manually 5/ #WhatRDsDo #RDChat 
Intermittent feeds: feeds given either via pump or gravity in short sessions (eg @120mL/hr x3hrs, 4x/d). Ideal for pts undergoing therapy or who may need feeds held for meds but who cannot tolerate bolus (j tube for example). 6/ #WhatRDsDo #RDChat
Gravity Bolus: 60mL syringe stopper is removed, syringe attached to feeding tube & formula poured in, allowed to flow via gravity. This is usually best for new PEGs or other pts who do not tolerate push bolus. Does take a lot of time. 7/ #WhatRDsDo #RDChat
Push bolus: formula pulled or poured into syringe and “pushed” via feeding tube. Usually for G tube patients who have been on feeds & tolerated for a while. 8/ #WhatRDsDo #RDChat
Another consideration is tube Fr sizing. Some smaller tubes may not be able to handle certain formulas via gravity. Refer to your Product Reference Guide for more information. Here’s a couple of quick guides thanks to @EmilyRDGA ! 9/ #WhatRDsDo #RDChat
As always, work with your #Dietitian to determine the best feeding methods for your patients. What other feeding method tips do you have? #WhatRDsDo #RDChat
