Nursing Sem. 1 Enteral nutrition and nursing care

Frequently used for shor term
enteral feeding. Tend to be
small, soft, flexible.
Increases pt comfort,
decreases mucosal damage.
Clog easily if not flused
thoroughly. Can become
kinked/dislodged due to
vomiting/coughing.

For patients requiring enteral
feedings for extended periods of
time. Useful for patients with
high risk of aspiration.
Inserted surgically.

used for liquid feedings. small
diameter and flexibility
increase pt comfort. can give
PO meds if ordereds.

used for decompression, removal
of gastric contents, air vent,
larger diameter usually
increases pt discomfort

airvent that connects to the
second lumen. allows for free
continuous drainage of
secretions when sump tube main
lumen is connected to suction

For patients requiring enteral
feedings for extended periods of
time. Useful for patients with
high risk of aspiration.
Inserted surgically.

F+E imbalance
Dehydration
decreased ability to handle
glucose loads, Na+ intake,
large volumes of formula,
increased risk of aspiration

Depression, vomiting, GI bleed,
SBO, critical illness/trauma,
cancer, GI disorders, dementia

Pulmonary aspiration -
regurgitation, tube displaced,
supine position, deficient
gag reflux. Diarrhea -
hyperosmolar formula or meds,
allergy to ingredients,
malabsorption.

Constipation - lack of fiber,
free water, meds, inactivity.
Tube occlusion- pulverized meds,
sediment of formula

Tube displacement - coughing,
vomiting, not taped securely.
Abd cramp - delayed gastric
emptying, lactose intolerance,
intestinal obstruction

Delayed emptying - diabetic
gastroparesis. Serum
electrolyte - excess GI losses,
dehydration, DM

Increased resp - overfeeding of
carbs/fats. Fluid overload -
refeeding syndrome in
malnutrition, excess free water

By injecting 30 mL of air and
auscultating for placement.
Assessing gastric contents thru
suction.

monitor weight, I+O, assess
skin for irritation at
insertion site, keep clean,
monitor for adequate fluid
intake, irrigate tube
before/after feedings/meds,
check placement, keep at 30
degree position during and
after feeding

Place pt on
their right side

Position
Pulmonary
Peristalsis
Placement