Enteral nutrition is a term that refers to the administration of nutrients through the gastrointestinal tract, either orally or by tube, with the aim of meeting the nutritional needs of a patient. This method is used when oral feeding is not sufficient or possible, either due to swallowing problems, neurological disorders, surgeries, or in critically ill patients. Enteral nutrition provides the essential nutrients the body needs to maintain its vital functions and promote recovery.
Types of enteral nutrition
1. Nasogastric tube enteral nutrition
Nasogastric tube enteral nutrition is a common method used to administer food and nutrients to patients who are temporarily unable to take food by mouth. It consists of introducing a tube through the nose to the stomach, where liquids with the necessary nutrients are administered. It is important that this type of enteral nutrition be supervised by trained health personnel to ensure its correct administration and avoid complications.
2. Nasojejunal tube enteral nutrition
In some cases, nasojejunal tube enteral nutrition is necessary when gastric administration is not appropriate due to problems in the stomach or intestines. In this method, the probe is introduced through the nose until it reaches the small intestine, allowing the administration of nutrients more directly. It is important to take into account the specific indications of this type of nutrition and have the follow-up of a specialized medical team.
3. Gastrostomy enteral nutrition
Gastrostomy enteral nutrition involves placing a tube directly into the stomach through an incision in the abdominal wall. This method is used in patients who require long-term enteral nutrition and do not tolerate nasogastric administration. Gastrostomy provides a safe and effective way to supply the necessary nutrients, ensuring adequate nutrition for the patient.
Definition of enteral nutrition
Enteral nutrition is defined as the supply of essential nutrients through the gastrointestinal tract with the aim of guaranteeing adequate food and nutrition in patients who cannot consume food orally or in sufficient quantity. This method is based on the administration of balanced nutritional formulas that contain proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals necessary to maintain the health and well-being of the patient.
Uses of enteral nutrition with patients
1. Hospitalized patients
Enteral nutrition is commonly used in hospitalized patients who have difficulty ingesting food orally, whether due to surgery, chronic illness, or conditions that affect the ability to eat adequately. In these cases, the administration of nutrients via the enteral route ensures that the patient receives the necessary nutrients to maintain their nutritional status and promote recovery.
2. Patients in intensive care
In intensive care units, enteral nutrition plays a crucial role in feeding patients who cannot eat on their own due to their critical health status. The administration of nutrients through an enteral tube provides vital nutritional support to maintain organic function and prevent malnutrition in seriously ill patients.
3. Patients with chronic diseases
In patients with chronic diseases that affect their ability to eat adequately, such as Alzheimer's disease, neurological diseases, cancer, among others, enteral nutrition becomes a fundamental tool to ensure that they receive essential nutrients to maintain your health and quality of life. This method helps prevent malnutrition and its complications in patients with special needs.
In conclusion, enteral nutrition is an effective and safe technique to meet the nutritional needs of patients who cannot feed themselves orally. With different types of enteral nutrition available and multiple uses in various clinical conditions, this method plays a fundamental role in the care of hospitalized, intensive care and chronically ill patients. It is important to have the evaluation and supervision of a trained health team to guarantee the proper administration and monitoring of enteral nutrition for the benefit of the health and well-being of patients.