Clinical meaning
Enteral nutrition delivers nutrients directly into the gastrointestinal tract via tubes when patients cannot meet nutritional needs orally but have a functional GI tract. Nasogastric (NG) tubes are used for short-term feeding (< 4 weeks), while percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tubes provide long-term access. Jejunal feeding tubes bypass the stomach and are indicated for patients with gastroparesis, high aspiration risk, or pancreatitis. Continuous feeding delivers formula at a constant rate via pump, reducing dumping syndrome risk. Bolus feeding mimics normal meal patterns but carries higher aspiration risk. The gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) requires enteral stimulation to maintain immune function and mucosal barrier integrity, making enteral feeding preferable to parenteral nutrition when the GI tract is functional.
Exam relevance
Risk factors: - Altered level of consciousness increasing aspiration risk - Impaired gag or swallow reflex from neurological injury - Head and neck surgery preventing oral intake - Severe dysphagia from stroke or progressive neurological disease - Critical illness with inability to meet caloric needs orally