CDN Enteral & Parenteral Nutrition Flashcards

Which enteral formula type is most appropriate for a patient with fat malabsorption requiring a high proportion of medium-chain triglycerides?

Answer: Semi-elemental formula

Semi-elemental formulas contain medium-chain triglycerides and partially hydrolyzed proteins that are better absorbed in patients with fat malabsorption.

What is the primary indication for initiating parenteral nutrition (PN) in a hospitalized patient?

Answer: Non-functional or inaccessible GI tract for more than 7 days

PN is indicated when the GI tract is non-functional, inaccessible, or cannot meet nutritional needs enterally for an extended period.

A patient on total parenteral nutrition (TPN) develops hyperglycemia. What is the first recommended intervention?

Answer: Reduce dextrose concentration and initiate insulin protocol

Reducing dextrose content and starting an insulin protocol is the standard first-line management for TPN-associated hyperglycemia.

Which access route is preferred for long-term enteral nutrition in a patient with a functional stomach?

Answer: Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG)

A PEG tube is preferred for long-term enteral feeding (>4 weeks) in patients with a functional stomach as it is more comfortable and stable.

Refeeding syndrome in a malnourished patient initiating PN is primarily caused by a shift in which electrolyte?

Answer: Phosphorus

Refeeding syndrome is primarily characterized by a rapid intracellular shift of phosphorus, leading to hypophosphatemia as anabolism resumes.

What is the standard hang time for an open enteral formula system to prevent microbial contamination?

Answer: 8 hours

Open enteral feeding systems should not hang for more than 8 hours to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination and formula degradation.