Setup of a Kangaroo Pump (Feeding Tube Pump)

Materials Needed

• Ordered formula for the patient
• Kangaroo pump set
  • Two types: with a bag or with a spike for formula in cans

Preparation Steps

1. Insert Spike:
   • Insert the spike into the formula container and tighten.
2. Fill with Water:
   • Open the bag and fill with sterile water (use tap water only at home, not in a hospital).

Priming the Pump

• Positioning:
  • Hold the small shelf and insert it into the slot.
  • Stretch and release the black cylinder into the designated place.
• Closing & Priming:
  • Close the door of the pump.
  • Turn on the power.
  • Clear settings if needed.
  • Prime the pump using the auto prime option (auto prime or manual prime).
  • Ensure pump is not connected to the patient during priming.

Setting the Feed Rate

• Check Orders:
  • Adjust feed rate as per doctor's order (e.g., 20 ml/hour).
• Volume to be Infused (VTBO):
  • Enter desired volume, e.g., keep below full volume to ensure alerts before emptying (e.g., 950 ml if the full volume is 1000 ml).

Flushing Settings

• Adjust Flush:
  • Ensure patient is not on fluid restriction.
  • Enter flush volume and frequency (e.g., 20 ml every 4 hours).

Running the Pump

• Verify Settings:
  • Ensure feed rate and flush settings are correct.
• Connect and Start:
  • Connect to patient and press "run".

Additional Instructions

• Shift Management:
  • To check or clear intake/output, use the "hold" button.
  • Clear volume at the end of a shift.
• Patient Positioning:
  • Ensure patient is upright (30-45 degrees) during feeding.
  • Put pump on hold if the patient needs to be laid flat for care.

Key Points

• Never prime while connected to the patient to avoid air in the line.
• Adhere to organizational policies for patient positioning during feeding.
• Monitor the pump to alert for additional feed or water when approaching the set limits.