Medica – Infant Feeding Tube

Instruction for Use (IFU)

• Wash your hands.
• Position the child.
• Swaddle an infant (wrap with the arms secured in a blanket). Put your infant on their back, either in an infant seat or on a bed, with the head raised.
• Older children should be placed in a comfortable position, and may be held by an adult if they wish. Some children may vomit when the tube is put in. Be sure the child can be turned easily if this happens.
• Lubricate the tube with water or put a small amount of lubricant on the end of the tube if you have been taught to do so. Most tubes have a coating that is activated with water, making the tube easier to slide in.
• Insert the tube into the nostril, pushing the tube gently down until the mark on the tube is at the tip of the nose. Older children can drink or swallow to help the tube go down. Infants may suck on a pacifier or your fingers during tube insertion. This can be uncomfortable for your child and it is normal for them to cough or sneeze while the tube is being inserted. It may be best to have someone help you.
• After the tube is inserted, remove the tube right away if:
  o coughing
  o gagging
  o sneezing
  o vomiting
  o wheezing
  o changing color
  o cannot catch a breath
  o change in respiratory rate
  o change in oxygen needs
  o decrease in pulse oximeter readings
  o increased restlessness
  o unexplained irritability, discomfort, or abdominal pain
  o or you see the tube coming out of the mouth
• Cuddle and comfort your child for a few minutes, and try again.
• Once the tube is in place, secure it with tape as shown by the nurse.
• Check the tube placement.