Final answer:
When a gastric ileus develops, enteral feeding is contraindicated because the stomach cannot process food; parenteral nutrition is the appropriate method to provide nutrients intravenously.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a patient develops a gastric ileus, enteral feeding through the gastrointestinal tract is contraindicated. Enteral feeding includes oral intake, as well as tube feedings, due to the inability of the stomach to properly process or move food.
A gastric ileus is a temporary cessation of peristaltic movement of the gastrointestinal tract after surgery, which leads to the stomach not being able to handle intake. In such cases, it's important to provide nutrition in a way that doesn't burden the compromised digestive system. Parenteral nutrition, which is delivered intravenously and bypasses the gastrointestinal tract, would be indicated instead to ensure the patient receives the necessary nutrients while allowing the gastrointestinal tract to rest and recover.