Gastroenterology Research, ISSN 1918-2805 print, 1918-2813 online, Open Access
Article copyright, the authors; Journal compilation copyright, Gastroenterol Res and Elmer Press Inc
Journal website http://www.gastrores.org

Review

Volume 12, Number 3, June 2019, pages 111-114


Basics of Blenderized Tube Feeds: A Primer for Pediatric Primary Care Clinicians

Tables

Table 1. Patient/Clinician Resources
 
*Commercial BTF hang time varies from 8 to 12 h, based on individual manufacturer’s recommendations. Any unused formula should be discarded after 24 h [1]. BTF: blenderized tube feeding.
Oley Foundation (non-profit educational resource for patients on enteral or parenteral nutrition)https://oley.org/
Food safety guidelineswww.homefoodsafety.org
www.foodsafety.gov
Sample BTF recipeswww.ginutrition.virginia.edu
www.foodfortubies.org
www.mealtimenotions.com
Ready-to-use BTF*Compleat - nestlehealthscience.us
Kate Farms - katefarms.com
Liquid Hope, Nourish - functionalformularies.com
Pediasure Harvest - abbottstore.com
Real Food Blends - realfoodblends.com

 

Table 2. Good Candidates for BTF
 
BTF: blenderized tube feeding.
Medically stable; stable growth
≥ 14 Fr feeding tube
Bolus feeds
Motivated family
Adequate resources and equipment (high-grade blender, refrigerator, electricity, access to clean water and food, storage containers)
Access to knowledgeable medical providers

 

Table 3. Potential Contraindications
 
Acute illness or immunosuppression (greater risk of infection from contaminated food)
Fluid restrictions (may be difficult to meet nutrient needs)
Continuous feedings (requires formula to be unrefrigerated for several hours)