A patient who has just been started on continuous tube feedings of a full-strength commercial formula at 100 mL/hr using a closed system method has six diarrhea stools the first day. Which action should the nurse plan to take?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Loose stools indicate poor absorption of nutrients and indicate a need to slow the feeding rate or decrease the concentration of the feeding. Water should be given when patients receive enteral feedings to prevent dehydration. When a closed enteral feeding system is used, the tubing and formula are changed every 24 hours. High residual volumes do not contribute to diarrhea.

A Patient Who Has Just Been Started on Continuous Tube