Complete Guide to Tube Feeding at Home

Being discharged from hospital on tube feeding — or supporting a family member who is — can feel daunting. Understanding the different types of tube feeds, how to administer them safely, and which products are available can make home enteral nutrition (HEN) much more manageable.

At NutriSip, we supply a full range of tube feeding products including the Nutrison range, Jevity, Fresubin, Vital 1.5 kcal, disease-specific feeds and paediatric products — all available for rapid UK delivery.

What Is Tube Feeding?

Tube feeding (also called enteral nutrition) is the delivery of liquid nutrition directly into the digestive system via a tube, bypassing the need to eat or swallow. It is used when a person cannot eat safely or sufficiently by mouth, but their digestive system is still functional.

Types of Feeding Tubes

Nasogastric tube (NGT)

Passed through the nose and down into the stomach. Usually used for short-term feeding in hospital or during acute illness. Not typically the preferred route for long-term home feeding.

PEG tube

A tube inserted directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall. The most common tube for long-term home enteral nutrition. Requires a minor surgical procedure to place but is comfortable and discreet once established.

Jejunostomy tube (JEJ)

Delivers feed directly into the small intestine rather than the stomach. Used when gastric feeding is not tolerated or is contraindicated.

Getting Started at Home

1. Confirm your prescription or product requirements
Your hospital dietitian will recommend specific feed products and volumes. Keep this information safe as you'll need it when ordering.

2. Set up your delivery schedule
Most home tube feeding patients receive feeds via a pump overnight or as bolus feeds during the day. Your dietitian will advise on the right regimen.

3. Order your supplies
NutriSip stocks the full range of tube feeding products and can supply direct to your home. We stock Nutrison, Jevity, Fresubin, Vital and disease-specific feeds.

4. Keep equipment clean
Feeding sets should be changed every 24 hours. Flush the tube with the prescribed amount of water before and after each feed and after any medication.

5. Monitor and record
Keep a log of feed volumes administered, any symptoms, and weight. Report concerns promptly to your nutrition support team or GP.

Products Stocked at NutriSip

Standard tube feeds

Nutrison 1.0 kcal, Jevity 1.0 kcal, Fresubin Original — suitable for most patients beginning enteral nutrition.

High-energy tube feeds

Nutrison 2.0 kcal, Fresubin 2 kcal, Jevity 1.5 kcal — for patients requiring elevated calorie intake in restricted volumes.

Disease-specific feeds

Nepro HP (renal), Pulmocare (respiratory), Glucerna (diabetes), Modulen IBD (inflammatory bowel disease).

Paediatric tube feeds

Frebini Energy, Paediasure Grow & Gain, Nutrison Paediatric — formulated specifically for children's nutritional requirements.

Need help choosing the right tube feed? Our GPhC-registered pharmacists are available Monday–Friday 9am–5pm on 01623 572757 or at sales@nutri-sip.com.

Medical disclaimer: Tube feeding should always be set up and monitored by a qualified healthcare team. Never change feed products or regimens without professional guidance. This article is for general information only.