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Enteral Access Devices: Types, Function, Care, and Challenges
Author(s) -
Lord Linda M.
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
nutrition in clinical practice
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.725
H-Index - 71
eISSN - 1941-2452
pISSN - 0884-5336
DOI - 10.1002/ncp.10019
Subject(s) - medicine , enteral administration , intensive care medicine , malnutrition , parenteral nutrition
Enteral access feeding devices are placed in patients who have a functional and accessible gastrointestinal (GI) tract but are not able to consume or absorb enough nutrients to sustain adequate nutrition and hydration. For many individuals, enteral nutrition support is a lifesaving modality to prevent or treat a depleted nutrient state that can lead to tissue breakdown, compromised immune function, and poor wound healing. Psychological well‐being is also affected with malnutrition and dehydration, triggering feelings of apathy, depression, fatigue, and loss of morale, negatively impacting a patient's ability for self‐care.[1][Arnold M, 2006] A variety of existing devices can be placed through the nares, mouth, stomach or small intestine to provide liquid nutrition, fluids, and medications directly to the GI tract. If indicated, some of the larger‐bore devices may be used for gastric decompression and drainage. These enteral access devices need to be cared for properly to avert patient discomfort, mechanical device–related complications, and interruptions in the delivery of needed nutrients, hydration, and medications. Clinicians who seek knowledge about enteral access devices and actively participate in the selection and care of these devices will be an invaluable resource to any healthcare team. This article will review the types, care, proper positioning, and replacement schedules of the various enteral access devices, along with the prevention and troubleshooting of potential problems.