You're welcome. We're here to help you. Feel free to ask questions. The search box will bring up many threads with info that has been passed around to many patients and caregivers over the years. Feeding tubes havent changed in the 10 years Ive been here, neither has the formula. Many patients do not have the support they need to pick up on all the ins and outs of tube feeding. After the tube is installed, the supplies delivered and a nurse will overload the patient and caregiver with an overview of the basics then they're left on their own. Theres a million and one little tricks to successfully perfecting the art of tube feeding and all the formulas. Ive been using a feeding tube for far longer than Id like to but for me, its a necessity. Ive learned quite alot of tips to make it as easy as possible.

Im curious about the reason for wanting to add over the counter nutritional drinks to the prescription formulas. By knowing whats behind wanting to add boost, ensure, etc it will help me to gear my reply towards the info you're looking for. Both over the counter and prescription formulas are very similar and give complete nutrition. Ive used several different formulas. Some I can tolerate, others make me feel bloated and sick to my stomach. Usually patients who have issues with a formula can easily fix it by adding water and/or slowing down the delivery rate. Those easy fixes solve about 80% of all feeding tube formula problems. I use a pump that runs overnight while I sleep. If using a feeding pump (small square plastic medical device, often its Kangaroo, Kangaroo Joey or Covidien brand pump), the delivery rate is controllable.

I hope your sisters doctor will be able to help. Not all doctors know much about feeding tubes and all the formulas and problems patients can run into. If you dont find her medical team can adequately answer your concerns please dont hesitate to check in with us and we'll do our best to help you.

Good luck!!!