Question

Use of a nasoenteric tube is the method of choice for the administration of enteral feedings when the client is at risk for which problem? a. Diarrhea b. Infection c. Aspiration d. Hyperkalemia

Short answer

c. Aspiration

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Purpose of a Nasoenteric Tube

The nasoenteric tube is a tube inserted through the nose into the digestive tract for administering nutrition. It is typically used for clients who cannot eat by mouth or need nutritional support.

Identify Common Risks in Enteral Feeding

Enteral feeding can have several risks including diarrhea, infection, aspiration, and hyperkalemia. Determine which of these risks is most effectively mitigated by using a nasoenteric tube.

Match Each Option with Nasoenteric Tube Benefits

Analyze each given option:a. Diarrhea: Nasoenteric tubes do not primarily prevent diarrhea. b. Infection: While there is a risk of infection with any medical device, nasoenteric tubes are not primarily used to mitigate this. c. Aspiration: A nasoenteric tube can help reduce the risk of aspiration, as it ensures that food is delivered directly to the stomach or intestines, bypassing the throat where aspiration can occur.d. Hyperkalemia: Nasoenteric tubes are not typically used to manage electrolyte imbalances such as hyperkalemia.

Choose the Best Option

Based on the above analysis, the best option is c. Aspiration, as this is the primary risk that a nasoenteric tube is used to prevent.

Key concepts

Enteral Feeding

Enteral feeding refers to the process of providing nutrients directly into the digestive system through a tube. This tube is usually inserted through the nose, mouth, or directly into the stomach or intestines. Enteral feeding is essential for patients who cannot eat or drink by mouth due to various medical conditions.
Nasoenteric tubes, a common method for enteral feeding, are inserted through the nose and pass through the esophagus to the stomach or small intestine. This allows healthcare providers to deliver the necessary nutrients.
There are several benefits of enteral feeding:

• Maintains nutritional status
• Supports immune function
• Helps with faster recovery

Enteral feeding also helps reduce the complications associated with malnutrition.

Aspiration Prevention

Aspiration occurs when food, liquid, or other substances are inhaled into the lungs, causing potential respiratory issues such as pneumonia. Nasoenteric tubes play a crucial role in preventing aspiration by delivering food directly to the stomach or intestines, thereby bypassing the throat.
When food bypasses the throat, the risk of it entering the airway is minimized. This is especially important for patients who might have swallowing difficulties, are unconscious, or have neurological conditions impacting their ability to swallow.
Some key methods for aspiration prevention include:

• Proper tube placement
• Continuous monitoring of tube position
• Ensuring the patient is in an upright or semi-upright position during feeding

Effective aspiration prevention helps promote safer feeding practices and reduces the risk of respiratory infections.

Nutritional Support for Non-Oral Intake

In situations where patients cannot consume food orally, whether due to surgery, injury, or illness, nasoenteric tubes provide vital nutritional support. These tubes ensure that patients receive adequate nutrition, which is essential for recovery and overall health.
Nutritional support through a nasoenteric tube includes balanced diets that provide necessary proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals. This comprehensive nutrition plan aids in:

• Maintaining body weight and muscle mass
• Preventing nutritional deficiencies
• Supporting the healing and recovery process

Additionally, customized feeding formulas can be used to cater to specific nutritional needs, ensuring that patients receive optimal care tailored to their conditions.
Proper nutritional support via nasoenteric tubes plays a pivotal role in improving patient outcomes and quality of life.