In: Nursing
Common complications of tube feedings include which of the following? (Select all that apply)
Aspiration |
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Abdominal distention |
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Diarrhea |
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Hypoglycemia |
The usual complications of tube feeding from the given options include the following:
Aspiration, diarrhoea and abdominal distension.
Hypoglycemia is not but HYPERGLYCAEMIA is a known complication.
Explanation:
Feeding tube complications include:
Aspiration: It is one of the most serious complications associated with tube feeding and can lead to aspiration pneumonia. Studies quote that 5 to 58% of tube fed patients develop aspiration pneumonia. Aspiration may not be evident after it has occured and may present as aspiration pneumonia. Aspiration pneumonia is an important cause of death in tube fed patients. Preventive measures include sitting up the patient while feeding and maintaining the position till 1 hour after the feed, iso-osmotic feeds rather than hyperosmotic feeds which delay gastric emptying and intermittent feeding so that the gastric capacity is not exceeded.
Diarrhoea - It is the most common complication. May be due to infections or other medications that the patient is on as well
Bloating - often due to excessive feeds, decreased gastric emptying and decreased bowel function.
Other complications include nausea and vomiting, metabolic and electrolyte imbalances, hyperglycaemia, refeeding syndrome, mechanical complications associated with the tubes etc.