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Complications occurring during enteral nutrition support: a prospective study
JPEN. Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition
|November 1, 1983
Summary
Enteral nutrition support via tube feedings is generally safe, with 11.7% of patients experiencing complications. Careful monitoring is essential for managing and preventing adverse events in patients receiving tube feedings.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Nutrition
- Gastroenterology
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Enteral nutrition (EN) is crucial for patients unable to consume adequate nutrients orally.
- Tube feeding is a common method for delivering EN, but potential complications require evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of complications associated with enteral nutrition support via tube feedings.
- To discuss the recognition and management of these complications.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 253 patients receiving enteral nutrition support.
- Analysis of complication types: gastrointestinal, mechanical, and metabolic.
Main Results:
- Overall complication rate was 11.7% in 253 patients.
- Gastrointestinal complications occurred in 6.2%, mechanical in 3.5%, and metabolic in 2.0% of patients.
- Most patients tolerated tube feedings well.
Conclusions:
- Enteral nutrition support via tube feeding is safe for the majority of patients.
- Vigilance is necessary to prevent or promptly identify and manage complications.
- Effective management strategies are crucial for optimizing patient outcomes with tube feeding.