GAVAGE FEEDHNG

**OBJECTIVES**
1-To provide a method of feedhng or administering medication that requires minimal patient effort,when the infant is unable to suck or swallow

2-Toprovide a rout that allows adequate calorie fluid intake
3-To prevent fatigue or cyanosis that is apt occur from nipple feeding
4-To provide a safe method of feeding a limp and listless patient

**DEFINITION**

Gavage feeding is means of providing food via a catheter passed through the nares or mouth,past the pharynx,down the esophagus,and into the stomach,slightly beyond the cardiac sphincter

**EQUIPMENT**
-Sterile rubber or plastic catheter
-Clear,calibrated reservoir for feeding fluid
-Syringe
-Stethoscope
-Water for lubrication
-Tap
-Pacifer
-Fluid food with room tempreture

**CHECKLIST OF GAVAGE FEEDING**
1-Prepared equipment
2-Explained procedure to mother and to child
3-Washed hands
4-Positioned the infant on his side
5-Placed diaper roll under infant shoulder
6-Measured feeding catheter
7-Prepared suction apparatus
8-Lubricated catheter
9-Stabilized infant head
10-Inserted the catheter into nostril
11-Did not push against resisance
12-Observed the infant for vagal stimulation
13-Taped the catheter to infant face
14-Checked for correct position of the catheter
15-Aspirated tube before feeding begins
16-Feed infant slowly
17-Irrigated the catheter with clear water and clamped tube,withdrew
18-Discarded feeding tube and any left over solution
19-Bruped the infant
20-Placed the infant on right side or on abdomen
21-Observed the infant carefully
22-Recorded and reported any abnormalities
*Vomiting*Abdominal distention*Time,Type*Amount of fluid*Infant activity