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We have a loved one who is not able to eat without passing out. The nursing facility isn't feeding him and so some family members are deciding to try to go and feed him every meal even though he passes out. Is this something that we should be doing or is it an exercise in futility? Is there a chance for a feeding tube to be placed?

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There is something called "post-prandial hypotension" that might be the culprit.

Here is an article:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-health/eating-can-cause-low-blood-pressure

Has the NH given you a reason they are not feeding him? Whom have the consulted and are they doing this on medical advice?
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He needs to be seen by a doctor immediately, especially if this is something new. Once a doctor advises you as to whether this is an end-of-life situation or a feeding tube situation, you can make your decisions as to what to do.
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You need to get the doctor involved immediately & see about a hospice evaluation!! Does your loved one want measures taken to extend his life, such as a feeding tube in spite of being incoherent?? I know I would not! Does he have a DNR in effect? These questions must be taken into consideration before you can decide what to do *if anything* next. You put this question under the "End of Life" category, leading me to believe your loved one is very elderly and truly AT the end of his life right now. Feeding tubes can be a painful way to extend someone's life when their body is refusing food, which you can discuss with hospice.

If this were my loved one, I'd have hospice involved to provide comfort care at this stage of the game.

I'm sorry you're faced with such a situation. May God grant you the courage to deal with the matter in a peaceful fashion.
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He should be tube fed, without question.
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Beatty Aug 2021
Even if your believe is life at all costs, adding a feeding tube will not guarantee life is prolonged.

It may. Or may not. But to keep the best interests of the patient forefront, adding distressing, invasive treatments should always be carefully considered.

Is it medically recommended?
Is it with or against DNR or known wishes & belief system of patient?

Plus the big one - will it cause harm?

(ie IF end of life, the digestive system slows & shuts down, can't process food).

I would be certainly asking questions. Firstly to a trusted Doctor who knows the patient's situation well.
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Oops, almost posted the same thing twice. Sorry!
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What is his quality of life? Is this a sudden change? You said he is incoherent - is this something that you expect will improve? You didn't mention his age or your relationship to him. Perhaps it is time for a family meeting to see if all of you are thinking the same thing but nobody wants to bring it up. Have you spoken with the doctor about the prognosis?

It sounds like you are in a difficult position. We are here to be your sounding board and to support you however we can. Thank you for sharing.
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What is is condition, what is causing him to pass out when he eats? Is he nearing the end of his life, is or should Hospice involved or is their something that can be accomplished by force feeding? Is he coherent? It’s hard for me to comment without a better picture. Sorry
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noblerare Aug 2021
As far as I know, the process of digestion causes him to pass out (something like a vasovagal response). He is not coherent.
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