Extension Sets
Low profile feeding tubes need an extension set while using the tube. The extension set only needs to be attached to the tube when giving feedings or medicine, or for decompression. When the feeding tube is not being used, the extension set does not need to be attached.
ENFit® and Non-ENFit® connectors
Many extension sets have ENFit® connectors. This is a safety feature on the end of the extension set that attaches to syringes, feeding tubes, or decompression tubing. An ENFit® connector twists into place whereas a Non-ENFit® connector is pushed into position. It is very important to have the correct supplies because ENFit® connectors do not fit onto Non-ENFit® tubing and vice versa. Your healthcare team will help you get the right supplies for home.
ENFit® Transition Adaptors
It’s an ENFit® Tube, Now What?
There are three types of extension sets:
Bolus extension set
- The bolus extension set is available with a straight or right-angle connector, in two lengths: 12 inches and 24 inches, and with either an ENFit® (twist) or Non-ENFit® (push) connector.
- This extension set is attached to the low-profile feeding tube when an “intermittent” or “bolus” feeding is needed. A bolus feeding is used when a certain amount of nutrition is given through the tube over a short period of time, usually about 20 minutes. It travels down the tube using gravity and a syringe. The bolus extension set can also be used to give medicine or fluid.
Continuous extension set
- The continuous extension set is available with only a right-angle connector, in two lengths: 12 inches and 24 inches, and with either an ENFit® (twist) or Non-ENFit® (push) connector.
- This extension set is attached to the low-profile feeding tube for continuous feeding over a few hours, usually using a pump. Continuous feeding can be done during the daytime or overnight.
- One of the ports is used for feedings while the other port can be used for medicine.
Medication Extension Set
- The medication extension set is available with only a right-angle connector, in a 2 inch length, and with either an ENFit® (twist) or Non-ENFit® (push) connector.
- This extension set was designed to give medicine.
Here is how the extension set works
- The extension set fixes securely into the feeding tube using the “SECUR-LOK*” connection. This keeps the tube attached while also allowing it to move around so that it is comfortable and does not pull on the feeding tube.
- One end of the extension set attaches to the feeding tube and the other end connects to either a syringe, a feeding pump set, the feeding bag, or the decompression system.
Here are some ways to take care of extension sets:
- Flush the tube and extension set with water before and after each feeding.
- Flush the tube every four hours to prevent it from getting clogged.
- Flushing the tube is important to help it work properly. You will be taught exactly how to do this before going home.
- Extension sets can be reused. Your medical team will tell you how often to replace it with a new one.
- Wash the extension set in warm soapy water and rinse after each use. It can be left to dry on a clean towel.
- Do not share used extension sets with other people.
- Remove the extension set in between use.
Instructions for Use (IFU) and Patient Guides
Below you will find a link to go to our IFU website to find all of our other patient guides and IFUs. To ensure you always have the most current information regarding your specific product, please visit our Instructions for Use website. When you arrive at the site, scroll down to view the easy-to-follow instructions and have your product part # (the REF# on your product label) ready to enter in the search box. If you don’t know your product part #, then please contact our nurse support team so that they can help you figure this out. Click here for nurse support contact info.
All Patient Guides
IFU Website