Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
gavage feeding
Pronunciation: gah-VAHZH
Method of delivering nutrition through a tube inserted into the stomach via nose or mouth.
Full Definition
Gavage feeding is a technique for providing nutrition to infants who cannot adequately feed orally due to prematurity, illness, or developmental issues. The procedure involves inserting a flexible tube (nasogastric or orogastric) into the stomach to deliver breast milk or formula. This method is commonly used in NICU settings for premature infants who lack the coordination to suck, swallow, and breathe simultaneously.
Usage
Usage note: Derived from French; alternative terms like 'tube feeding' may be clearer for general audiences.
In Context
- "The 28-week infant requires gavage feeding until oral coordination develops." — Feeding assessment note
- "Gavage feeding volumes should be increased gradually per protocol." — Nutritional care plan
Also known as
tube feeding
nasogastric feeding
orogastric feeding
Contrasted with
oral feeding
bottle feeding
Don't confuse with
IV nutrition