Module 7: Enteral Feeding

Question 1

Large diameter (large bore) sump tubing nasogastric tubes are most often used for? Small-bore, silastic tubing insertion stylet is used for?

Answer 1

Large-bore: For both decompression and short term enteral feeding
Small-bore: For longer-term feeding needs, preferred method over large-bore tubes as they reduce patient discomfort and gastric erosion and can be used longer

Question 2

What are the indications for enteral feeding?

Answer 2

• Cancer
• Critical illness or trauma
• Neurological and muscular disorders
• Gastrointestinal disorders

Question 3

What would you assess prior to administering enteral nutrition?

Answer 3

Order
Allergies
Tube placement
 Patency
Intake and output

Question 4

What position should a patient be in prior to initiating a feed or administering a medication through a feeding tube? Why?

Answer 4

A 45° elevation when possible for supine patient to reduce the risk of aspiration and, if intubated, prevent ventilator-associated pneumonia