General Pediatric feeding pump care

Specialties Private Duty

Published

I'm a licensed LPN. I've spent the past few years since clinical working one on one with children with autism in their school setting. I'm starting a new job at same school with a child that has Enterlite Infinity Enteral/MOOG Feeding pump. Student is kindergarten age and wheelchair bound, nonverbal. My past experience with feeding tubes were with adult clients and it has been a while. Does anyone have general suggestions, tips for operating the Infinity pump, personal experience with similar cases?

I've read the manual, reviewing it and general feeding tube info. I'm familiar with the student and know somewhat what to expect. However, because most of my work has been geared toward students with lower medical need and increased psychosocial and educational needs, I want to review/boost my confidence by feeling prepared. Anything is appreciated.

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Specializes in Early Intervention, Nsg. Education.

The Oley Foundation has some really nice info regarding Home Enteral Nutrition. Checking HEN (Tube Feeding) - Oley Foundation would be a great place to start.

You can find lots of great info about the Entralite Infinity pump here: Education Materials - Feeding Tube Awareness Foundation

The rest of the website is full of great info, as well.

Good luck! [emoji4]

Mercury's Mom

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Specializes in Private Duty Pediatrics.

A kindergartner, wheelchair bound, nonverbal child is likely to pull on the tube. I'm guessing he has a Mickey button or something similar. Keep it covered. Always have what you need to reinsert or replace it.

If he keeps at it, you can cover it well (thicker cloth or some such) and give him something else to pick at, maybe something tied to his wheelchair.

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Thank you!

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Thank you. Those sites look excellent.

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Specializes in Complex pedi to LTC/SA & now a manager.

The pump is pretty simple. I like this pump as you can prime without the pump, though it can be tricky.

There is not much to do with a pump other than follow the plan of care for scheduled feeds, flushes and GB care. There should be orders for cleaning, whether the balloon needs to be checked, how frequently button needs to be changed and how to clean/care for the site. Your agency should offer case orientation and training so you can have hands on with a preceptor to learn the equipment as well as the student's unique needs and challenges. Most school cases the nurse is only there for medical/safety care. Nurses are not there for education and therapy unless specifically addressed and within agency police. My agency has had issues with overzealous nurses arguing equipment needs with PT & OT and interfering with education sessions with the teacher and paras. Nurses can help say if an extra person is needed for an art project but should not overtake the education projects.

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You can also go to the Infinity pump website infinityfeedingpump.com. It has quick reference guides and a pump simulator that will help you practice. The Infinity customer service should also be able to answer any pump or set questions. Their phone number is 800-970-2337. Hope that helps.

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