Feeding Tubes
By: Prajna D
The use of feeding tubes in gastroenterology is fairly common, especially in children. Feeding tubes can be inserted in many different situations, however, the main purpose of this medical device is to deliver substances directly to the body without them having to be ingested by mouth. But, why would someone need this? People suffering with eating disorders, difficulty swallowing, or other factors that make eating difficult, may rely on an alternate method of nutrient delivery. Thus, feeding tubes may be the only option for such individuals. Feeding tubes can provide nutrition, fluids, or medication. They can also decompress the stomach, and remove stomach contents if necessary (Whitlock, 2020).
Individuals sometimes depend on feeding tubes for intake. Particularly, individuals who have difficulty swallowing could be in serious danger if they were to orally ingest their food. For example, complications may include food taking the wrong route to the respiratory tract, which is very dangerous. In these instances, the insertion of feeding tubes is much safer. Additionally, people suffering with eating disorders may not be getting the nutrients they need to maintain a healthy body and lifestyle. In this case, a feeding tube may also be necessary until the individual is able to rehabilitate their disorder. Feeding tubes can be the appropriate tool for people with several different diagnoses and conditions.
There are several types of feeding tubes that may be more appropriate for certain individuals. Depending on the situation, individuals may need temporary or permanent feeding tubes. Nasogastric (NG) tubes are intended for short-term use, and they are inserted through the nose to the stomach. Similarly, there are Orogastric (OG) tubes inserted in the mouth to the stomach. Gastric (G) tubes are for long-term use and are inserted directly into the stomach through an incision in the abdomen. Depending on the type of tube, there are several different placement methods that both may or may not include surgery.
The use of feeding tubes is very diverse and cannot be narrowed down to a certain diagnosis of an individual. Although these tubes may seem intense, many people rely on them to live a fairly normal life.
Food poisoning
By: Saivishnu Tulugu
Food poisoning refers to a group of diseases caused by various bacterial, viral, and protozoal agents. These diseases often arise from improperly prepared food and are typically associated with gastrointestinal problems. This article will talk about common types of foodborne pathogens and how to prevent/treat them.
A common type of food poisoning is caused by norovirus. According to the CDC, 58% of all foodborne disease annually can be attributed to norovirus. Common sources of contamination include improperly cooked shellfish, unwashed produce, and cross contamination from sick individuals. Foodborne norovirus can elicit various symptoms similar to the flu including diarrhea, nausea, and committing and typically will resolve on its own. To prevent norovirus outbreaks, it is vital that individuals practice safe-food handling techniques (ie. washing your hands, washing produce, etc.) and being cognisant around individuals such as children and the elderly who are more susceptible to receiving the virus.
Another common foodborne pathogen that frequently is featured in the news is Escherichia coli or E. Coli. This species of bacteria is often found in undercooked meats and cross-contaminated food and drink products. This bacteria is known to spread through fecal-oral transportation and prevention measures typically consist of practicing safe-food handling techniques, cooking meats to safe internal temperatures, and avoiding unpasteurized dairy products. Treatment typically entails taking antibiotics but concerns are arising over the emergence of antibiotic resistance strains. (Olorunmola et. al)
Finally, another important foodborne illness to be aware of is campylobacter which is found in undercooked poultry products. Prevention is similar to other types of foodborne illness with handwashing and pasteurization being the safest methods to mitigate risks of an individual contracting it. Overall, it is important for consumers to be aware of various pathogens and how to safely handle their food. (Luangtongkum et. al) In a globalized society, it has been increasingly common for foodborne pathogens to mutate and spread and if there is anything we have learned from this pandemic then it should be that food safety should be prioritized.
Work Cited:
Feeding Tubes
Whitlock, J. (2020, April 5). Types of Feeding Tubes and Their Uses. verywellhealth. https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-you-should-know-about-feeding-tubes-4152086
Food poisoning
Foodborne germs and illnesses. (2020, March 18). Retrieved April 13, 2021, from https://www.cdc.gov/foodsafety/foodborne-germs.html
Luangtongkum, T., Jeon, B., Han, J., Plummer, P., Logue, C. M., & Zhang, Q. (2009). Antibiotic resistance in Campylobacter: emergence, transmission and persistence. Future microbiology, 4(2), 189–200. https://doi.org/10.2217/17460913.4.2.189
Olorunmola, F. O., Kolawole, D. O., & Lamikanra, A. (2013). Antibiotic resistance and virulence properties in Escherichia coli strains from cases of urinary tract infections. African journal of infectious diseases, 7(1), 1–7. https://doi.org/10.4314/ajid.v7i1.1
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