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# Complications of Enteral Feedings ## Vomiting and/or Aspiration **Causes:** * Tube incorrectly placed * Delayed gastric emptying * Contaminated formula * Increased residual volume **Solutions:** * Check tube position * Delay feeding one hour and check residual volume before resuming * Elevate h...

# Complications of Enteral Feedings ## Vomiting and/or Aspiration **Causes:** * Tube incorrectly placed * Delayed gastric emptying * Contaminated formula * Increased residual volume **Solutions:** * Check tube position * Delay feeding one hour and check residual volume before resuming * Elevate head of bed 30-45° or have child sit in chair * Refrigerate formula, check dates and discard after 24 hours ## Diarrhea **Causes:** * Rapid feeding * Medications (such as antibiotics) * Contaminated formula. Lactose intolerance * Low-fiber/hypertonic formula. Distal movement of tube. **Solutions:** * Slow rate of feeding or use continuous drip * Evaluate medications * Change tubing every 24 hours and avoid hanging feedings for more than 4 hours * Change formula (add fiber, decrease sodium) * Check position of tube before feedings ## Constipation **Causes:** * Inadequate fluids * Fecal impaction * Medications * Formula **Solutions:**