Enteral Nutrition: Options for Short‐Term Access

Abstract

The preferred method of nutrition support in the presence of a functional gastrointestinal tract is enteral nutrition (EN). Many factors contribute to the selection process for the type of enteral access device to be used. Short-term enteral access tubes are placed into the nares or, sometimes, orally, usually at bedside. The short-term access provides a means to meet patient nutrient needs and can provide a chance to assess tolerance of the tube feedings if more permanent long-term placement is determined to be required. Access for nutrition support does not come without a risk; it can be challenging, requiring an individualized approach for each patient. The selection type and access location can greatly impact the success of EN. The most advantageous tube choice must be determined carefully, taking into account the multiple considerations reviewed in this paper.

Dispelling Myths and Unfounded Practices About Enteral Nutrition

“…Background: Large‐bore nasal tubes used for drainage or sump tubes do not have indications for feeding in their product literature; rather, these tubes are to be used for nasogastric suctioning, lavage, and/or decompression. Despite specific indications for these uses, sometimes a large‐bore tube has been used to deliver EN …”

“…Summary/Recommendations: The large‐bore NGT, when used for tube‐feeding, should be replaced with a more pliable tube with a smaller diameter tube within 5–7 days to help reduce morbidity and improve patient comfort …”

“…Despite specific indications for these uses, sometimes a large-bore tube has been used to deliver EN. 19 Evidence: Primarily, a large-bore nasogastric access allows for the ability to assess tolerance to enteral feed-ing prior to placement of a smaller-bore feeding tube. A drainage tube can be placed at the bedside by clinicians at all levels of training.…”

“…20 Summary/Recommendations: The large-bore NGT, when used for tube-feeding, should be replaced with a more pliable tube with a smaller diameter tube within 5-7 days to help reduce morbidity and improve patient comfort. 19 Myth/unfounded practice #6: Patients cannot swallow with a nasogastric feeding tube in place.…”

Comparação Entre Três Softwares De Cálculo De Dietas: Uma Análise Do Valor Energético De Uma Dieta Enteral Semiartesanal

“…A TNE é indicada para pacientes, cujo funcionamento do trato gastrointestinal é total ou parcial, porém não conseguem se alimentar por via oral ou quando as necessidades nutricionais não são atingidas somente por esta via 2 . Pode ser administrada em regime hospitalar, ambulatorial ou domiciliar 3 .…”