Fiber-fortified feedings in immobile patients

The purpose of this pilot study was to test methods to measure the effects of a fiber-fortified, enteral feeding (Jevity) on the bowel habits of an immobile, tube-fed group of patients. Three experimental patients received fiber-fortified feedings for seven weeks, whereas four control patients received their usual enteral feeding. Measurements of the number of stools, the consistency of stools, the formula volume delivered, the daily water volume, the body temperature, the urinary output, and the bowel medications were made during three phases--a baseline, an adjustment, and a treatment period. Patients who receive the fiber-fortified enteral feedings had more stools and better consistency of stools than did those patients who did not receive the fiber-fortified formula. Results indicated that fiber-fortified feedings should be added gradually to immobile, tube-fed patients' diets under close supervision. Although measuring the effects of a new feeding in immobile, tube-fed patients is labor-intensive, it can be accomplished successfully.