Enhancing Quality of Life: FreeArm’s Tube Feeding & Infusion Assistant
In 2015, a mere five weeks at home with their son Freeman transformed the lives of FreeArm founders Will and Misti Staley forever. During his time at home, Freeman required bolus feeding, medication administration, and therapeutic care. In response to this challenge, Will and Misti embarked on a journey of innovation, creating a device that would lend them an extra hand during these tasks. While Freeman may no longer be with us, his legacy lives on through a thoughtful innovation that empowers not only those who rely on feeding tubes but also the caregivers who tend to their needs.
“The mindset of losing a loved one is to understand that the loss will never be undone. You must live with it, like it or not. But, to live well, you must turn that loss into something positive. That way, you can become the best version of yourself; scarred, flawed, and unstoppable.” – Val Uchendu.
The prevalence of home parenteral and enteral nutrition is on the rise, and patients and caregivers face many challenges with their nutrition regimens. This complex and time-consuming process can negatively impact quality of life, including but not limited to the need to hold a syringe while feeding, the use of IV poles, and kinked lines. That’s where FreeArm comes in, and we are thrilled to shine a light on this innovative tool that provides freedom, convenience, and an overall more positive experience for HEN patients and their caregivers.
As we delve deeper into the world of FreeArm, you’ll discover how this remarkable device is changing lives and making daily routines easier for those who depend on it.
Image via facebook.com/FreeArm
Understanding the Need
The Struggles Faced by Feeding Tube Users
Tube feeding is a life-saving solution that comes with a myriad of challenges impacting both patients and caregivers. The impact on mobility is perhaps one of the most evident challenges, as it limits a person's ability to move freely and engage in daily activities. The act of tube feeding demands a hand to hold, which hinders the ability to multitask. The risk of spills and inconsistencies in feed and infusion rates is ever-present, adding an element of unpredictability to an already complex process. The frustration of a kinked line further compounds the challenge, disrupting the flow and effectiveness of the feeding regimen. On top of all of this, tube feeding is not always well-tolerated, adding a layer of discomfort and unease to the experience. In the face of these challenges, the need for innovation and practical solutions becomes all the more apparent.
The FreeArm Solution
FreeArm is the innovative solution that empowers feeding tube users to overcome many challenges they face. At its core, FreeArm is mobile clamp, a flexible pole, and a secure clip, engineered to confidently secure feeding bags of up to 1200 ml. Beyond its practical functionality, FreeArm is a beacon of hope, independence, and an all-encompassing enhancement to the feeding experience for countless individuals.
The FreeArm offers a touch of personalization with options in four fun colors (white, pink, blue, and green) to suit individual preferences and retails for $259.
The Benefits of FreeArm
The transformative power of FreeArm was showcased in a 2023 study, spearheaded by the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN). The results revealed a consistent trend: FreeArm users experienced a positive transformation in their tube feeding experience. Confidence soared, there was a marked improvement in the ability to tolerate feeds, and quality of life was enhanced. Let’s take a deeper look.
Increased Confidence in Feeding
Transitioning from using a feeding tube in a clinical environment to managing it at home can be a daunting prospect; however, with the invaluable assistance of FreeArm, this transition becomes significantly smoother. The impact is unmistakable - FreeArm users reported a noteworthy rise in confidence, from 69% to 96%, when it comes to feeding outside a medical setting. The FreeArm’s ability to maintain the pump in the proper position, preventing kinks and disruptions, creates a profound positive impact on the tube feeding experience.
Improved Tolerance and Adherence
The design of the FreeArm provides a solution to two critical challenges in tube feeding - tolerance and adherence. By allowing users to consistently set the appropriate feeding height, it notably enhances tolerance for syringe fed patients. Additionally, the ability to securely hold the syringe during both feedings and medication administration significantly reduces the occurrence of spills. This double benefit not only makes the tube feeding process more comfortable, but also promotes better adherence to the prescribed regimen, ensuring a smoother and more effective experience.
Enhanced Quality of Life
FreeArm enhances overall quality of life for tubies and their caregivers. By enabling hands-free feeding, it allows for multitasking by both users and caregivers, generating time and flexibility in daily routines. The elimination of the need for an IV pole further promotes freedom and mobility, allowing users to move around their homes and even take their regimen on the go. Survey respondents’ ability to do other activities while syringe feeding increased to 94% after using FreeArm, making for another invaluable benefit.
Conclusion
FreeArm is a wonderful tool for individuals around the world who rely on feeding tubes. By addressing the challenges faced by users and promoting independence, this innovative tool has revolutionized the feeding experience. With enhanced confidence, tolerance, and an improved quality of life, FreeArm empowers feeding tube users in many ways. Get more information and see if FreeArm is right for you by visiting FreeArm (freearmcare.com).
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your feeding tube management routine.
