Using a Feeding Pump at Home
What Is a Feeding Pump?
A feeding pump is a machine used to give the right amount of food or formula over a specific amount of time. A feeding pump used at home is called a home feeding pump. The pump and supplies you go home with may be different than the ones used in the hospital.
Why Is It Used?
Sometimes children are not able to eat or drink as much as they need by mouth. They may need to get some or all of their nutrition through a feeding tube.
How Will You Get a Feeding Pump and the Supplies You Need?
A home health company will give you the feeding pump and supplies needed.
The home health company will:
- decide what feeding pump your child will use. This is based on your child’s needs and the pumps that the company uses.
- talk with you about how to get the food or formula your child needs.
Your child’s provider will talk with you about:
- the type of food or formula to give your child.
- how to give the food or formula on the pump.
How Will You Learn How To Use the Pump?
A hospital case manager will work with your home health company to decide when and where you will get training. You will be taught how to use your child’s home feeding pump by:
- the nurses in the hospital.
- someone from the home health company. This may happen while your child is staying in the hospital or in your home.
Resources
These resources are a great way to learn more about your child’s feeding pump.
