Introduction: Feeding tube dependence is the unintended result of prolonged feeding and is defined as an active refusal to eat and drink orally, lack of motivation, or in inability to learn to feed orally on their own. Purpose: The purpose of this thesis is to review the literature on feeding tube dependence in early childhood, the reasons for the development of dependence, the ways of prevention and treatment of feeding tube dependence, and the role of the nurse in the prevention of feeding tube dependence. Methods: The thesis uses a descriptive method of working with a critical review of domestic and foreign literature. The literature search was conducted in CINAHL, PubMed, and ScienceDirect databeses via remote access of the University of Ljubljana Digital Library. Results: Research shows that there are several reasons for the development of feeding tube dependence, the most common being the absence of a sensitive period for the development of normal feeding skills, low birth weight, congenital heart diseases and mental retardation. Early identification and treatment of dependence are very important. Diffrent treatment strategies and clinical programmes have been shown to contribute to earlier weaning from the feeding tube. The results of studies have shown that inpatient programmes, the Graz model addiction treatment programme, Clinical hunger provocation, sensory-motor interventions, behavioural interventions and psychological inretventions are effective for treating dependence. For premature infants, the use of rating scales to assess oral feeding is effective. Discussion and conclusion: We have found that long-term tube feeding has a negative effect on children, as it can be addictive. The causes of dependence may be medical or interactive in origin. Early detection and treatment, with a multidisciplinary approach, are important. In the future, there would also be a need to carry out research on the chosen topic in Slovenia.
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