Final answer:
Common enteral feeding methods include nasogastric, gastrostomy, and jejunostomy methods, selected based on the patient's needs and the nature of their medical condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Common delivery options for enteral feedings include nasogastric tubes, gastrostomy, and jejunostomy feedings. For example, medical food for a comatose patient can be administered through a gastrostomy tube directly to the stomach. Nasogastric (NG) tubes are placed through the nose down to the stomach, while gastrostomy (G) and jejunostomy (J) tubes are surgically inserted directly into the stomach or jejunum, respectively.
Enteral feeding methods are chosen based on the patient’s particular medical condition and nutritional needs, as well as the duration of feeding required. Medical professionals oversee the administration of medical foods, which are tailored for specific health issues such as kidney disease or diabetes and are designed to be digested in the intestines only.
When oral administration of medication is ineffective, parenteral routes such as intravenous or intramuscular injections are used. These methods, often utilized in healthcare settings, provide higher plasma levels of the drug compared to oral routes, which is crucial for treating infections effectively.