Short Term Care Advantages And Disadvantages

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There are a number of different methods in which to administer enteral feeding and each have advantages and disadvantages. For short-term feeding, the most common methods include nasogastric and nasoenteric tubes. Nasogastric (NG) tubes are inserted through the nose and deliver formula to the stomach. These tubes are generally used in patients with normal gastrointestinal function, and can be administered through bolus injection or by intermittent or continuous infusions. The main advantage of NG tubes is that it utilizes normal digestive function. (Kr) Because it allows digestion to begin in the stomach, formula can be released into the stomach at a controlled rate and thus decreases the risk of dumping syndrome. It also allows for flexibility in administration, the tube can be inserted at the bedside, and medications can administered through this tube. The disadvantages of this method include a higher risk of aspiration, possible discomfort for the patients, tube displacement, and permanent damage to the nose and throat if used for a long period of time. (NTP) …show more content…

(NTP) Nasoenteric tubes are usually indicated for patients who have impaired gastric emptying or cannot tolerate gastric feedings but have normal small intestine function. (Es-St, NTP) Advantages of these tubes include decreased risk of aspiration since the stomach is bypassed, bedside insertion, flexibility in administration, and medications can be placed in the tube. (NTP). Disadvantages of nasoenteric tube feeding include an increased risk of dumping syndrome, nasal or throat irritation and erosion, tube displacement, discomfort to the patient, and required pump administration (NTP,Kr). Also, because these tubes go straight to the intestine, there is a higher risk of infection because the bactericidal effect of hydrochloric acid in the stomach is

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