Unnecessary Use of Feeding Tubes in Nursing Homes

A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association has brought into question the necessity of using feeding tubes in dementia patients who refuse food.  Over one third of dementia sufferers in nursing homes have feeding tubes inserted at one time or another, according to Business Week. 

There is no hard evidence, however, that feeding tubes prolong the lives of dementia patients.  In fact they often do more harm than good.  Feeding tubes can cause a multitude of symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, gastroesophageal reflux, and dehydration.  Complications are also common.  Leakage and clogging of the tube occur when the feeding tube is not flushed properly after feedings.

A feeding tube is too often an easy, and necessarily expensive, way out for doctors to treat dementia patients who refuse to eat.  Reducing stress, proper medications, and making patients comfortable can many times be enough.