How to Calculate Tube Feeding Rate

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Tube Feeding Rate Calculator

This calculator helps you determine the appropriate continuous tube feeding rate based on the prescribed daily volume and feeding duration.

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Understanding How to Calculate Tube Feeding Rate

Enteral nutrition, often referred to as tube feeding, is a method of providing nutrition to individuals who are unable to eat or drink by mouth. This can be due to various medical conditions such as stroke, head injury, or gastrointestinal disorders. The formula used to calculate the tube feeding rate is straightforward, but ensuring accuracy is crucial for patient safety and effective nutritional delivery.

The Calculation Formula

The most common calculation for continuous tube feeding involves determining the hourly rate. The formula is:

Tube Feeding Rate (mL/hour) = Prescribed Daily Volume (mL) / Feeding Duration (hours)

  • Prescribed Daily Volume (mL): This is the total amount of formula the healthcare provider has ordered for the patient to receive over a 24-hour period. It's typically measured in milliliters (mL).
  • Feeding Duration (hours): For continuous feeding, this is usually 24 hours. However, if the feeding is prescribed for a specific period within the day (e.g., 16 hours), that duration should be used.

Example Calculation

Let's consider a patient who has been prescribed 1800 mL of formula per day, and this is to be administered continuously over 24 hours.

  • Prescribed Daily Volume = 1800 mL
  • Feeding Duration = 24 hours

Using the formula:

Tube Feeding Rate = 1800 mL / 24 hours = 75 mL/hour

Therefore, the continuous tube feeding should be set at a rate of 75 mL per hour.

Important Considerations

While this calculator provides a basic rate, it's essential to remember that:

  • This calculation is for continuous feeding. Bolus or cyclic feeding regimens have different administration methods and rates.
  • Always follow the specific orders of a qualified healthcare professional (physician, registered dietitian, or nurse).
  • Monitor the patient closely for tolerance, including symptoms like nausea, vomiting, abdominal distension, or diarrhea.
  • The formula type, the patient's condition, and individual tolerance may necessitate adjustments to the feeding rate, which should only be made under medical supervision.
  • Regularly check the feeding equipment, such as the feeding pump, to ensure it is functioning correctly and delivering the prescribed rate.

This calculator serves as a helpful tool for understanding the calculation process, but it is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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