Aspiration
Accidentally inhaling liquid into the windpipe and/or lungs
Bolus Feeding
Large amounts of formula delivered through the tube
Constipation
Bowel movements (stools) sometimes painful, and difficult to pass
Continuous Feeding
Feeding small amounts of formula constantly throughout the day (or night) without interruption
Diarrhea
Frequent, loose, watery bowel movements
Esophagus
The passage in the throat through which food passes from the mouth into the stomach
Feeding Pump
A small machine, plug-in or battery powered, that automatically controls the amount of formula being delivered through the feeding tube
Feeding Set
Tubing that connects the feeding container to the feeding tube
Gastroesophageal Reflux
Backing up of formula or gastric juice from the stomach into the esophagus
Gastrointestinal Decompression
The removal of gas or fluid from the stomach. (also called “venting”)
Gastrostomy
A surgical opening (stoma) through the skin into the stomach
Granulation Tissue
Fleshy projections formed on the surface of the stoma that will later form fibrous scar tissue
Gravity Drip
Formula flows into the stomach by gravity
G-Tube
Gastrostomy tube. A tube that passes through the skin into the stomach; also called feeding tube.
Intermittent Feeding
Feeding smaller amounts of formula frequently during the day or night. Intermittent feeding supplements night-time continuous feeding.
Nutrients
Food or any substance that nourishes the body – protein, carbohydrate, fat, vitamins, minerals, and water
Stoma
Surgical opening through which a feeding tube can enter the body
Stomach Residual
Contents of the last feeding remaining in the stomach just before the next feeding is to be given