Complications Occurring during Enteral Nutrition Support: A Prospective Study

Abstract

A review of 253 patients treated with enteral nutrition support via tube feedings is presented for the purpose of evaluating the incidence of complications. Thirty patients, (11.7%) experienced either gastrointestinal, (6.2%) mechanical (3.5%), or metabolic (2.0%) complications. The recognition and treatment of such complications are discussed and it is concluded that tube feedings are safely tolerated by most patients; however, constant attention must be exerted to either avoid or recognize such complications. (Journal of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition 7:546-552, 1983)