Hello! This page is for you to read with a grown up. It is about artificial nutrition, which is a special way of getting the food our bodies need when eating does not work well enough.
What is it?
Think of your body like a car. A car needs fuel to go, and our bodies need food and drink to give us energy and help us grow. Sometimes a person cannot eat enough, or their tummy cannot take the goodness out of food the way it should. Artificial nutrition is a way to give the body its "super fuel" in a different way. Some children on it can still eat a little too.
The two main ways
Tube feeding. A special liquid food goes through a tube into the tummy. The tube might go through the nose, or through a small opening in the tummy.
Feeding through a line. The food goes straight into the blood through a soft tube called a line, which goes into a big vein near the heart. This is called TPN. Doctors and nurses know exactly how to look after it.
Keeping it safe
- Always wash your hands before anyone touches a tube or line. Clean hands keep germs away.
- Never pull on a tube or line.
- If something hurts or feels funny, tell a grown up straight away.
Feelings
Sometimes you might feel different from other children, or sad, or cross. That is alright. Lots of children and grown ups all over the world have tubes and lines too. Talking to your family about how you feel really helps.
Telling your friends
If friends ask, you could say: "My body doesn't get what it needs from food, so this tube gives me extra fuel. It keeps me strong."
Fun things to try
- Draw your superhero self. What would your costume look like? What would your powers be?
- Make a thank you card for someone who helps you, like a nurse, a teacher or someone in your family.
- Fill a happy jar. Write down good things that happen and pop them in a jar. On a sad day, read a few.
- Make a star chart for all the brave things you do.
You are brave, you are strong, and you are never on your own.
For parents and carers
- Children take their lead from you. Calm, honest answers help them feel safe.
- Let them help with small jobs, like getting supplies ready, if they want to.
- Make it easy for them to ask questions and share feelings.
- Talk to their school so teachers understand what is needed.
- Connect with other families. You are welcome in our community.