Abstract

Tube feeding technology has greatly impacted the livelihood of children with low incidence disabilities such as CHARGE syndrome. Technology development increases have made tube feeding effective and efficient for relaying liquid nourishment into the bodies of little ones in need of sustenance, but has feeding efficiency left many children without appropriate sensory stimulation resulting in the abatement of foundational developmental skills? A case study reflection from one mother regarding the use of older technologies resulting in developmental gains is compared with her observations of children currently feeding with pump technology. This mother opines for supportive training for parents and school personnel to deliberately spend time in face-to-face bonding and nurturing while feeding with pump technology. Research is needed to weigh the positives of modern feeding devices with the potential of negating typical developmental opportunities for children with comorbid sensory loss such as those with CHARGE during feeds.

Keywords: CHARGE Syndrome; Feeding tubes; Feeding pumps