We Need to F.E.E.D. Study
Helping Families Improve Tube Feeding Education and Support
UI Health is seeking parents and caregivers to participate in a research study aimed at improving education and support for families caring for children who require tube feeding.
The “We Need to F.E.E.D.” (Facilitating Enteral Education for Discharge) study aims to better understand how education and resources can help families feel more confident in managing tube feeding at home.
This study is being conducted through the UI Health Pediatric Gastroenterology program and is approved under UIC Study ID #2025-0139.
About the Study
Caring for a child with a feeding tube can present unique challenges for families. The goal of this study is to improve the information and support that caregivers receive about tube feeding.
By participating, families can help researchers develop better educational tools and resources for caregivers of children who rely on feeding tubes.
Research at UI Health
Research studies like the We Need to F.E.E.D. Study help improve care for children and families managing complex digestive and feeding conditions. By participating, families help advance knowledge and improve support for others facing similar challenges.
All information shared during the study will remain confidential, and participation is completely voluntary.
Who Can Participate
You may be eligible to participate if you are:
- A parent or caregiver of a child with a feeding tube, including:
- Gastrostomy tubes (G-tubes)
- Jejunostomy tubes (J-tubes)
- Gastrojejunostomy tubes (GJ-tubes)
- Nasogastric tubes (NG-tubes)
If you are unsure whether you qualify, our research team can help determine eligibility.
What Participation Involves
Participants in this study will:
- Complete a short survey before and after an educational session
- Continue receiving standard care from their child’s medical team
Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups:
- Standard Care Group: Receives usual treatment and completes surveys
- Education Group: Receives usual treatment plus an additional educational session about tube feeding and completes surveys.
The information gathered will help researchers understand how education affects caregiver confidence and home feeding experiences.
Participant Appreciation
As a thank you for their time, participants will receive:
- A $25 gift card
- A small goodie bag
How to See if You Qualify
If you are interested in participating or would like to learn more, please get in touch with our research team to be screened for eligibility.
Phone: 312.996.7416
Contact:
Melba Haberland, APRN-FPA, CPNP
Email: melbawi@uic.edu
