Final answer:
Non-oral nutrient intake methods include parenteral nutrition via intravenous lines for immediate nutrient access, enteral nutrition through a tube to the stomach or intestines, transdermal patches, implants for slow nutrient release, and inhalation for absorption through the lungs.
Step-by-step explanation:
There are various non-oral ways for patients to intake nutrients when they cannot utilize the oral route due to reasons such as illness, surgery, or specific digestion or absorption problems. These methods bypass the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and provide alternative means for nutrient delivery. One common method is parenteral nutrition, which involves delivering nutrients directly into the bloodstream through an intravenous (IV) line, allowing for immediate access by the body's cells. This method is particularly used in healthcare settings and is preferred especially when high plasma levels of certain drugs are necessary, as with some infection treatments. Another option is enteral nutrition, which includes using a tube to deliver nutrition directly to the stomach, duodenum, or jejunum. Enteral nutrition is often used when the digestive tract is functioning but the patient is unable to consume food orally, for example due to swallowing difficulties. Other methods include transdermal patches or implants that release nutrients slowly into the bloodstream, and inhalation, where certain nutrients can be absorbed via the lungs.