Parental Perspectives on Blenderized Tube Feeds for Children Requiring Supplemental Nutrition

Families choose pureed blenderized tube feeds (BTFs) over commercial formulas for several reasons, including the ability to provide foods with natural composition, improvements in physiological outcomes, intimate experiences for parental nurturing, and the benefits that come with family inclusion and mealtime engagement. Although dietetic associations cannot, as yet, recommend BTFs, many families still choose to commence them. We aimed to better understand the demographics of these families, their sources of information and support, and the perceived benefits in a community setting to tailor the support we provide these families.

Dietitians at a pediatric hospital in Sydney identified 21 children receiving BTFs. Questionnaires that focused on child/parent demographics, parental knowledge, dietetic support, and symptoms before and after commencing BTFs were distributed. Food diaries were also sent.

Twelve respondents returned completed surveys. Thematic analysis indicated improvements in general health, emotional and social well-being, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Respondents reported challenges with food preparation, nutrition adequacy, food storage, and prevention of tube blockages. Respondents primarily sought information online from social media and support groups. Likert scale analysis demonstrated positive outcomes for children receiving BTFs. Improvements were noted in general health, growth, nausea/vomiting, reflux, constipation, diarrhea, and social inclusion. Tube blockage was reported, however, and only changed from "never" to "rarely a problem." Food diaries were not detailed enough for analysis.

Families continue to choose BTFs and report a range of benefits, accessing much of their information online. Health professionals should recognize this and openly provide support, guidance, and monitoring as appropriate.