To the Friends & Family of a Tubie
As a family member, friend, or peer of someone who relies on tube feeding, it is important to understand how you can support a tubie and the parents caring for them. There are hundreds of medical conditions that can lead to needing a feeding tube, and someone doesn’t need to look “sick” to depend on a feeding tube. Knowing the correct information on tube feeding is the first step in supporting a loved one.
Tube Feeding Facts vs. Myths
Myth: Tube feeding is forever.
Fact: Tube feeding can be short or long-term.
Myth: Your tubie will not be able to eat orally whatsoever.
Fact: Each tubie patient is unique and oral eating is possible when on a feeding tube.
Questions to Ask
What kind of tube does he/she have?
How many times a day and what time of
day do they need to tube feed?
What doses of formula are they using
during each feed?
What type of formula do they use?
What to Avoid
• Giving a tubie food or drink without parent permission.
• Telling parents of a tubie to not tube feed in public.
• Feeling bad for a tubie, or displaying negative connotation towards them.
• Asking them why they must use a feeding tube.
• Making them feel uncomfortable and/or staring during feeding times.