Enteral Nutrition I: Orogastric and Nasogastric Feeding

Enteral nutrition, or tube feeding, delivers nutritionally complete liquefied food or medications directly into the gastrointestinal tract via a tube, catheter, or stoma.

It is crucial for patients unable to consume orally due to conditions like burns or oropharyngeal paralysis.

Tube feeding, often using nasogastric tubes inserted through the nostril into the stomach, is typically preferred for short-term feeding for less than four weeks.

Conversely, orogastric tubes, inserted through the mouth into the stomach, are used when nasal routes are obstructed.

Both methods use a radiopaque polyurethane or silicone tube, enabling X-ray confirmation of placement.

Nursing interventions for tube feeding focus on ensuring proper tube placement and patient safety.

Before feeding, measure the tube's external length, check aspirate color and pH, and confirm bowel sounds.

Safety measures include elevating the bed's head 30-45 degrees to reduce aspiration risk. Use enteral-safe medications and monitor for complications such as aspiration and abdominal distention.