Complications of enteral nutrition

Complications of enteral nutrition

1. the osmolality of a liquid substance means the number of particles per kg of solution

2. substance with high osmolality reaches intestines draw fluid from blood to dilute formula (osmosis) diarrhea, weakness

3. aspiration in the lungs can get pneumonia, keep bed at 30 degrees

4. tube may become clogged or confused patient may pull out tube

5. placement of the tube should be checked initially with x-ray, air bubble or check pH

6. gastric pH check or by ascultation

7. keep bed elevated

Parenteral Nutrition

1. provides nutrients via IV

2. used if the gastrointestinal tract is not functional & normal feeding not adequate

3. Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) or hyperalimentation = total nutrition

4. peripheral vein used if only 2 weeks or less. If more than 2 weeks, use picc line.

5. Central vein used when extended period of time ie. TPN 6 mos. +

6. high blood flow facilitates quick dilution of highly concentrated TPN reducing risk of phlebitis & thrombophlebitis

Complications of Parenteral Nutrition

1. infection at site of catheter - blood infected = sepsis

2. bacterial or fungal infections develop in solutions

3. abnormal electrolyte levels phlebitis or blood clots (thrombosis) travel

4. enormous increase in energy needed for healing process to occur

5. protein needs may be as high as 1.5-3.0 or more grams / kg wt.

6. fat intake may be 15-20% of non-protein calories

7. high protein, high calorie diet

8. watch blood sugar

Clients with Infections

1. fever is hypermetabolic state each degree of fever on F scale raises basal metabolic

   scale by 7%

2. If extra calories are not provided, body uses stores of energy. ie glycogen

3. protein intake should be increased

4. minerals are needed to help build and repair body tissue to maintain pH & electrolytes

5. extra vitamins are also necessary for the increased metabolic rate and help fight infection

6. extra liquid needed to replace losses