Enteral Nutrition

Enteral nutrition (or tube feeding) is “food or drug administration via the human gastrointestinal tract”. Bear in mind that this method of nutrition is different from drug administration, considering the latter occurs through intravenous means, whereas enteral administration basically involves the esophagus, stomach, and the gastrointestinal tract. As for its methods of administration, they generally include oral, sublingual, and rectal. According to healthline.com, “a person on enteral feeds usually has a condition or injury that prevents eating a regular diet by mouth, but their GI tract is still able to function.” It is worth noting that enteral nutrition allows the patient to receive nutrition and keep their gastrointestinal tract working. Besides, it “may make up their entire caloric intake or may be used as a supplement”. As a matter of fact, the doctor will choose the placement of the tube “based on what size tube is needed, how long enteral feeds will be required, and your digestive abilities”. The enteral formula will also be chosen “based on tube placement, digestive abilities, and nutritional needs”. Even though tube feeding is essential in some cases, there are still a few complications that can occur, including skin irritation, diarrhea, nausea, or aspiration (i.e. when food goes into the lungs)