What type of nutrition support is indicated when a patient cannot meet needs by oral intake but has a functioning GI tract?

• A. Parenteral nutrition
• B. Total parenteral nutrition
• C. Enteral nutrition (tube feeding)
• D. Oral nutrition supplements

Answer: (C)

When the GI tract is functioning but oral intake isn’t enough to meet nutritional needs, the best option is to deliver nutrients through the gut—that is, enteral nutrition via tube feeding. Using the digestive tract to supply calories and protein helps preserve gut mucosal integrity and function, reduces the risk of infection, and is typically more cost-effective and easier to manage than IV nutrition. Tube feeding can be done through a nasogastric or orogastric tube for short-term use, or a gastrostomy/jejunostomy for longer-term needs, depending on the patient’s situation.

Parenteral nutrition would be the alternative if the GI tract could not be used or absorb nutrients (delivered intravenously). Total parenteral nutrition means all nutrients are given IV, bypassing the gut entirely. Oral nutrition supplements are additional oral calories or nutrients and cannot fully substitute for inadequate intake when the gut is capable of digestion and absorption.