The Importance of nutrition, feeding tubes and transplant - 2024 Pediatric Transplant Conference

From the 2024 Pediatric Transplant Conference, part of National Pediatric Transplant Week and National Donate Life Month.

Presenter:
Sarah Hahn, MA, CCC-SLP, Speech-Language Therapist at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago

Gastric tubes are often needed by many transplant recipients because they can have digestive problems after the surgery. Caregivers should also ask questions about why their child might need a gastric tube after all the other procedures they've been through. These tubes help them get the nutrition and medication they need, especially when they can't eat or drink normally right after the transplant. As a caregiver or recipient, it's important to learn how to take care of the tube properly. This means knowing how to feed, give medication, and keep the tube clean to avoid infections. It's also important to talk openly with the healthcare team about any concerns or problems. And when it's time, caregivers can advocate for their child by discussing with the healthcare team if and when the gastric tube can be removed. With the right knowledge and support, caregivers and recipients can handle the gastric tube well and help with a smooth recovery after the transplant.

Intro/Outro music: "Parasail" by Moby. Used with permission.