Question

Total enteral nutrition can cause the patient to aspirate, which can be life-threatening. Signs and symptoms include:

A) Increased appetite
B) Weight loss
C) Hypoglycemia
D) Respiratory distress

Answer 1

Aspiration is a dangerous complication of total enteral nutrition, which can cause respiratory distress. Other signs and symptoms include weight loss and infections.

Step-by-step explanation:

Aspiration occurs when food or liquid enters the airway and can be life-threatening. In the case of total enteral nutrition, where a patient is receiving all their nutrition through a feeding tube, aspiration can occur if the food or liquid enters the lungs instead of the stomach. This can lead to respiratory distress, which is one of the signs and symptoms of aspiration. Other signs and symptoms include weight loss, as the patient may not be receiving adequate nutrition, and fever, diarrhea, and vomiting, which may occur due to infections and complications from aspiration.

Answer 2

Total enteral nutrition can cause the patient to aspirate, which can be life-threatening. Signs and symptoms include Respiratory distress. Thus the correct option is D.

Step-by-step explanation:

Enteral nutrition, while crucial for patients unable to take food orally, can lead to aspiration, a severe complication. Aspiration occurs when food or liquid enters the airway instead of the digestive tract, potentially causing life-threatening issues like pneumonia or asphyxiation. Respiratory distress is a key sign of aspiration, involving difficulty breathing, coughing, or wheezing due to the presence of foreign substances in the lungs. This condition demands immediate medical attention to prevent severe complications.

Enteral nutrition formulas are delivered directly into the stomach or intestines through tubes. If aspiration happens during this process, particles can enter the respiratory system, leading to inflammation or infection in the lungs. These respiratory issues manifest as distress characterized by labored breathing, chest discomfort, and reduced oxygen levels. Prompt identification and intervention are vital to mitigate the risks associated with aspiration and prevent further respiratory complications.

Understanding the signs and symptoms of aspiration, such as respiratory distress, is crucial for healthcare professionals managing patients receiving enteral nutrition. Recognizing these indicators promptly aids in swift intervention, ensuring patient safety and preventing life-threatening consequences. Regular assessment and monitoring for respiratory distress can significantly reduce the risk of aspiration-related complications in patients reliant on enteral nutrition for their nutritional needs. Thus option D is correct.