Quick Summary:
Learning the ropes of enteral feeding can be overwhelming. The first step is deciding what system works best for you and your loved one.
Start by learning the difference between a gravity feeding bag and a feeding pump.
Next, consider how dependent your patient is. How often will you be around to help them? Take into account the level of maintenance required for either method. How difficult is it to clean, or how often should you replace it?
Your doctor should instruct you on how to use your enteral feeding system. Make sure you’re familiar with how to safely and efficiently navigate the equipment before use.
Click a link to jump to the section.
Introduction
Understanding the difference between gravity bags and feeding pumps is the first step in the journey of enteral feeding. Both nutrition delivery options have their own unique benefits. The best option for you depends on your individual needs.
Caregivers and facilities should consider several factors when deciding between the two methods, including budget restrictions, patient independence, caregiver availability, and feeding frequency. Care centers may benefit from stocking both types of enteral feeding supplies to meet the various needs of their patients.
What is a Gravity Feeding Bag?
Feeding bags use gravity to dispense formula in a continuous flow without the need for a feeding pump. They are ideal for patients in home or hospital environments with dysphagia, gastroparesis, neurological disorders, and other post-surgical needs. Their controlled flow is useful for intermittent and continuous enteral feeding.
Vitality Medical sells gravity feeding bags with 500mL and 1000mL capacities. Larger bags allow for longer feeding sessions and are ideal for patients who need more calories.
Many feeding bag sets include enteral tubing and ENFit connectors. Ask your doctor any questions you may have about how often you should replace disposable equipment.
What is a Feeding Pump?
Enteral feeding pumps dispense formula at a controlled flow rate. They are commonly used in hospitals to provide nutrition for patients who need long-term care and precise feeding. Their user-friendly buttons and customizable settings eliminate any guesswork and provide peace of mind.
These devices are small and lightweight. Some pump feeding sets are mountable to IV poles for convenience in hospital settings. Others include a backpack for easy use on the go.
Key Differences Between Gravity Bags and Feeding Pumps
Gravity feeding bags have manual flow control, whereas feeding pumps have automated flow regulation.
Gravity bags have a lower enteral feeding cost for people who have attentive caregivers. Enteral feeding pumps provide more feeding accuracy for patients with more independence.
Electric feeding pumps use enteral feeding sets and are much more expensive than a manual version; however, they are more portable and have many convenient settings.
Gravity Bags are more affordable and don’t have any buttons to navigate. With proper training, caregivers can easily learn feeding procedures for either method.
Choosing the Right Method
There are a few factors for caregivers to consider when deciding on an enteral feeding method:
Patient Condition: How independent is your loved one? Can they feed themself or will you be there to assist them? Individuals who can administer their own feeding formula may prefer to use a gravity bag. Busy caregivers may be interested in a feeding pump.
Care Setting: How many patients are you assisting? Gravity bags are perfect for caregivers who look after a single loved one. Medical personnel attending multiple patients might choose a feeding pump.
Frequency of Feeding: What is your loved one’s meal schedule? How busy are you? Gravity bags require more attentiveness, whereas feeding pumps automatically dispense formula in pre-set intervals.
Feeding pump sets and gravity bag feeding sets are disposable. Consult your doctor and read the manufacturer's instructions for replacement schedule recommendations. Proper maintenance and hygiene practices can protect your loved one’s health and optimize the equipment’s efficiency and longevity.
Safety and Maintenance Considerations
Cleaning enteral equipment on a regular basis is essential to contamination prevention. Ask your doctor about supply replacement schedules.
Following guidelines from the equipment’s manufacturer, as well as those of medical professionals, supports good hygiene and creates safe feeding practices. Doing so also facilitates formula administration and ensures equipment reliability.
Conclusion
Every patient has different needs and meal schedules. As with all new processes, learning the ropes of enteral feeding will inevitably include some trial and error. Understanding the difference between various nutrition support products helps ensure patient safety.
Feeding bags use gravity to dispense formula with manual flow control. They are disposable and gravity operated, making them more affordable than electric feeding pumps. They require more caregiver involvement and, therefore, may be preferred by those who can either feed themselves or have a very attentive loved one looking after them.
Enteral feeding pumps are more exact than gravity feeding bags. They deliver formula at pre-set flow rates. This method is an excellent choice for long-term patients in need of precise feeding measurements at home or in a care facility. Many can mount to poles, and a few include backpacks or carrying bags.
Vitality Medical sells and from a wide range of manufacturers. Let us help you on your enteral feeding journey today.
Login and Registration Form