Enteral Feeding Course

Enteral Feeding – Online Course

Course overview
This online course introduces the key clinical principles and safety considerations of enteral feeding, supporting competent practice alongside local procedures and practical training. It explains why enteral feeding is used, how feeding tubes and equipment work, and how to monitor individuals, recognise complications and escalate concerns. The course takes one hour and is CPD accredited.

Please note: This is an introductory, Level 1 course that builds knowledge and awareness. It does not replace the practical competence, local procedures or role-specific clinical training an employer may require before staff carry out enteral feeding.

What the course covers
– Why enteral feeding is used, and the digestive system
– Types of feeding tubes and routes of feeding in care settings
– Roles and responsibilities
– Consent and ethical considerations
– Infection prevention and control
– Equipment, feed types and selection
– Preparing for feeding and methods of feeding
– Hydration and flushing
– Administering medication via feeding tubes, including the safe administration process
– Accountability and documentation
– Monitoring the individual, dietetic monitoring and red flags
– Common complications, aspiration risk and prevention
– Tube care and maintenance, managing tube blockages, infection and stoma care
– Feeding in special situations
– Troubleshooting and escalation
– Person-centred care and dignity

Who is it for?
The course is written at an introductory level for people who care for, or support, individuals who receive enteral feeding in the UK. It is appropriate for:
– Healthcare professionals, including nurses, dietitians, speech and language therapists and doctors
– Community nurses and home care staff
– Care home and residential care staff
– Health and social care support workers
– Paediatric healthcare providers
– Hospice and palliative care staff
– Students and trainees in healthcare and social care
– Volunteers and non-clinical support staff in healthcare settings
– Parents and family carers

It can be used for induction, refresher training, awareness or to enhance existing knowledge.

Practical benefits
– Understand why enteral feeding is used and how the main routes and tubes differ
– Become familiar with equipment, preparation and infection-prevention requirements
– Recognise common complications and warning signs, including aspiration risk
– Understand when to stop, seek clinical advice and escalate
– Support person-centred care that respects dignity and consent
– Gain evidence of awareness and knowledge for inductions and refresher training
– Receive a free CPD-accredited certificate for your records

What learners will be able to do
– Explain the purpose and common indications for the intervention
– Identify relevant equipment and preparation requirements
– Understand infection-prevention and safety precautions
– Recognise required checks before beginning a procedure or support task
– Understand role boundaries and the need for practical competence
– Recognise common complications and warning signs
– Monitor the individual appropriately during and after care
– Know when to stop and seek clinical advice
– Document care, observations and concerns accurately
– Follow local escalation and emergency procedures

Assessment and certificate
Learners complete a quiz at the end of the course. On successful completion, they receive a CPD-accredited certificate, which can be downloaded or printed at home for free. A hard copy can also be requested for delivery to a home or work address. Unlimited quiz retakes are included, and the course is allocated instantly after purchase. A complimentary learner management system lets organisations view course progress, quiz results and certification, and a compliance matrix is available to support audits and inspections.