NR 452: Nutrition Activity

Nutrition support directly affects vital body systems. Errors can lead to serious complications like aspiration, infection, blood sugar problems, or fluid overload. Because these therapies may run continuously and often involve pumps or central lines, even small mistakes can cause major harm if not caught early.

• 2. PEG Tube: This is a tube placed directly into the stomach through the abdominal wall. It uses the GI tract.

• 4. Nasojejunal (NJ) Tube: This tube bypasses the stomach and delivers nutrients directly into the small intestine (jejunum). It uses the GI tract.

• 6. Orogastric (OG) Tube: Commonly used in neonates or intubated patients, this tube runs from the mouth to the stomach. It uses the GI tract.

Why the others are incorrect:

• Options 1 & 3: These are Parenteral methods. They deliver nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system entirely.

• Option 5: While "enteral" technically refers to the GI tract, in a clinical and NCLEX context, Enteral Nutrition specifically refers to tube feedings (liquid formula) for patients who cannot swallow safely, not standard oral intake.

Using the GI tract helps maintain normal digestion, supports the immune system, and lowers infection risk. It keeps the intestines working, prevents gut atrophy, and is more natural and safer than delivering nutrition directly into the bloodstream

Immediate physical assessment of the airway and breathing is required to determine the severity of a suspected aspiration event.

Not usually right away. Vasopressors reduce blood flow to the gut, which increases the risk of bowel ischemia. Enteral feeding may be delayed or started very cautiously until the patient is more hemodynamically stable

Pathophysiology: When a malnourished client receives carbohydrates, the body releases a massive surge of insulin. This insulin causes cells to rapidly take up glucose, but it also "pulls" electrolytes from the blood into the cells.

  The "Big Three" Drops: Refeeding syndrome is characterized by a "low and slow" drop in three specific electrolytes:

·       Hypophosphatemia (The hallmark sign)

·       Hypokalemia

·       Hypomagnesemia