E. Šmid
Klinični oddelek za gastroenterologijo, hepatologijo in nutricionistiko, Pediatrična klinika, Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana

A. Lajhar
Klinični oddelek za gastroenterologijo, hepatologijo in nutricionistiko, Pediatrična klinika,Univerzitetni klinični center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenija

Abstract

Proper nutrition is important in every stage of life. Adequate nutrient intake is most important during the period of growth and development of the child. If the child is una-ble to swallow, we try to ensure adequate intake of calories with enteral nutrition, which means that we feed the child by a feeding tube. The same method is used in children with increased energy needs due to chronic illness and in treatment with special diets. Feeding through a nasogastric tube is used in children who need feeding for less than a month. Children who need enteral feeding for a longer period are fed by gastrostomy or jejunostomy.

Key words: Enteral nutrition, nasogastric tube, gastrostomy, jejunostomy, healthcare