Feeding Tube Injuries and Deaths

Tube feeding is used to nourish patients who cannot, for various reasons, adequately intake food or nutritional supplements orally, or who cannot eat and drink safely. According to the Journal of Palliative Medicine, tube feeding has become increasingly common notwithstanding the fact that it “has limited medical benefits in terms of survival, functional status, or risk of aspiration pneumonia.”

Research data reveal that those who receive feeding tubes may have a 30-day mortality rate of 22% and one year mortality of as high as 63%. Of those who do survive, one study showed that 70% experienced no improvement in functional or nutritional status.

Many physicians appear to be unaware of this evidence. Thus, the increase in the use of this often questionable method of treatment. Clearly, some patients and nursing home residents require the assistance of feeding tubes to survive. But, there can be little doubt that for many, the risks outweigh the benefits.

In some cases, feeding tubes are improperly inserted. This can lead to serious complications.

Risks associated with tube feeding include, among others:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Esophageal damage
• Aspiration pneumonia
• Serious infections
• Diarrhea and constipation
• Abdominal cramping
• Malnutrition

Whose Fault?

Not every injury or death connected to the use of a feeding tube is the fault of care givers, but many are. Some nursing home residents only needed more assistance with eating, and should not have been exposed to the known risks of feeding tubes. We can thoroughly explore and evaluate any injury or death in which the use of feeding tubes may be implicated. We will determine whether actionable abuse or neglect occurred.

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Our injury lawyers and staff want to help you, in the unfortunate event that you need our help.  Just e-mail or telephone us for a free, no obligation, confidential consultation.  

For free answers to your questions about injuries or a death occurring in a nursing home, assisted living center or group home, just complete our convenient online contact form.