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I have had a peg tube for 5 weeks. We are planning our first airplane trip. We will need to eat in restaurants. We are looking for suggestions of where to hang the bag so gravity can work. Is there such a thing as a travel iv pole? Also, any other travel hints will be appreciated.
There are travel IV poles; I own three. I never ever use 'em, because I use a pump. They're collapsable, and will fit in an overhead bin. However, I don't think they'd be allowed to be used during the flight, if that's your question, so you'd have to check with the airline. This is where a pump comes in very handy; i just slide my carryon with pump working, under the seat in front of me. Also, some tips for security. Approach the first security agent you see and request a hand search. They will keep directing you toward the right line and the right agents.
Hello,
One thing we have done for years with our daughter is we have a letter / prescription from her PCP that say's she's G-tube fed which requires her to use a feeding pump. This has help out allot with security in airports. I just hand them the letter / prescription which also say she needs to have water with her at all times. We pack all of Nina's meds in one bag which is hand carried thru security. We have gone thru security with two 1 liter bottles of water with questions. People just look and are shocked.
If anyone from security questions me which has happen 2 since 911 I just ask them to get a manager. Once the manager comes over we talk about ADA requirements and all is well.
I hope this information is helpful.
Enjoy your vacation and live life to its fullest.
Blessings,
Lesley a/k/a NinaBean
Where did you find the travel IV poles? I am more concerned about eating in a restaurant, not on the plane.
Thanks.
Appreciate the ideas for getting through TSA.
I got mine directly from Coram; in fact, I have so many that one is at my sister's house in Virginia and I have 2 here in NYC. I'd be happy to just give you one if you're in the area. You can also find them on line at various medical suppliers.
How come you don't use a portable pump? Has anyone mentioned this to you before? I have a Zevex Enteralite Infinity pump and it's great. I carry it in a little bag and they have backpacks as well. It's so much easier, especially when you are on continuous feeds like I am!
Mimi
Agree with pump + physician's letter recommendations. Most TSA employees seem to understand what you are doing. I try to have canned nutrition shipped to final destination, but always carry a few cans for emergencies or delays. Best wishes. Ecol
Agree with pump + physician's letter recommendations. Most TSA employees seem to understand what you are doing. I try to have canned nutrition shipped to final destination, but always carry a few cans for emergencies or delays. Best wishes. Ecol
No one has recommended a pump. We have now eaten out 4 times. The first time there was really no good place for the bag to hang so I mostly held it; the next time there was a hook on the wall behind and above where I was sitting; the next time I brought my collapsable IV pole, put it behind me and hooked up; tonight we ate outside and I used an "s" hook I carry, attaching it to one of the spokes on the umbrella shading the table and was good to go. So sometimes it is easy and others a little more challenging. I just think a tidy collapsable pole should be available for traveling. I have requested a letter for TSA, so hopefully that part won't be a problem
The Oley Foundation has a number of tips for traveling with tube or IV feedings posted at http://www.oley.org/traveltips.html.
In addition one member recently mentioned the following portable IV pole which may be helpful for you. He writes: "The Pitch-It IV pole Model No 30003 collapses to less 28" x 3" inches and is very lightweight (aluminum). Because it is so lightweight (and relatively thin) it is not as sturdy as the standard IV pole. However, I just attached an old pump clamp without a problem and I think this pole would work for a variety of purposes. This pole is listed at many internet sites."
Other resources that may be of use to you:
• Tube Feeding Tips: http://www.oley.org/tubetalks.html
• Tube Feeding Complication Chart: http://www.oley.org/charts/newHEN.pdf
• Restaurant Card:
http://www.oley.org/restcards.html
All Oley programs are free of charge for persons on tube or IV feeding and their family members.
Feel free to call if you have more questions.
Regards,
Roslyn Dahl
Oley Staff Member
(800) 776-OLEY
dahlr@mail.amc.edu
Thanks for all the comments and suggestions. I have jerryrigged (not sure that's a word) a pole using a clamp and collapsible cane. I think it will work pretty well and not take up too much room or be too heavy for traveling. I am hoping this is going to be short term so didn't want to invest in anything too expensive.
Thanks again for the help.
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