Enteral Nutrition: What You Need to Know About Feeding Through a Tube

Enteral Nutrition: What You Need to Know About Feeding Through a Tube

When it comes to providing nutrition to patients who cannot eat or swallow orally, enteral nutrition (EN) is often the best option. EN involves delivering nutrients to the patient through a tube, either nasally or through a surgically created opening.

However, while EN is a common medical intervention, it can be confusing for patients and their families. Here’s what you need to know about enteral nutrition.

Who is a candidate for enteral nutrition?

EN is typically used for patients who cannot take food or liquid by mouth due to conditions such as injury, illness, or surgery. Patients with certain medical conditions like cancer, cerebral palsy, or neurological disorders may also require EN.

How is enteral nutrition given?

There are several ways to administer EN, including:

1. Nasogastric feeding: A tube is inserted through the nose into the stomach.

2. Nasojejunal feeding: A tube is passed through the nose into the small intestine.

3. Gastrostomy feeding: A tube is inserted directly into the stomach through a small incision in the abdomen.

4. Jejunostomy feeding: Similar to gastrostomy feeding, but the tube is inserted into the small intestine.

Which method of feeding is used will depend upon the patient’s needs and individual situation.

What types of formula are used in enteral nutrition?

There are two main types of formula used in EN:

1. Polymeric formulas: These are standard formulas that contain all the necessary nutrients.

2. Elemental formulas: These formulas contain broken-down proteins and carbohydrates for easier absorption.

Formula selection is individualized based on the patient’s specific nutrition needs.

What are the potential complications of enteral nutrition?

Although enteral nutrition can effectively provide patients with the necessary nutrients to support their health, there are potential complications to be aware of such as:

1. Tube dislodgement

2. Tube blockage

3. Aspiration pneumonia

4. Diarrhea or constipation

5. Dehydration

It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to ensure that these complications are prevented or managed appropriately.

Conclusion

Enteral nutrition is a vital medical intervention for patients who cannot eat or swallow orally, and it’s important to understand what it entails. With an understanding of EN, patients and their families can feel confident in their understanding of the process and its potential benefits and complications. Working closely with healthcare providers can help ensure successful management of enteral nutrition.