A critically ill patient is prescribed enteral feedings to begin after placement of the nasogastric tube is verified. What should the nurse identify as the goal for this method of nutrition?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

1. Enteral feeding is the preferred route for nutritional supplementation because it is associated with significantly lower rates of infection than parenteral nutrition. This lower infection rate may occur because enteral feeding prevents translocation of bacteria from the GI tract, which can occur when the GI tract is inactive. The recommendation to start feeding early, at 24 to 48 hours after admission, is not only to provide adequate nutrition immediately but also to decrease the likelihood of infection.
2. A potential adverse effect of enteral feedings is aspiration pneumonia. Starting the feedings early will not avoid the development of this potential adverse effect.
3. Enteral feedings do not directly impact respiratory excursion.
4. Enteral feedings do not impact or influence pain level.

A Critically Ill Patient Is Prescribed Enteral Feedings to Begin