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.