Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Enteral & Parenteral Nutrition Support

Question 1

What is the primary indication for initiating enteral nutrition support?

Accepted Answer

Patient has a functioning GI tract but cannot meet needs orally

Answer

Enteral nutrition is indicated when the GI tract is functional but oral intake is insufficient to meet nutritional needs — the 'if the gut works, use it' principle.

Question 2

Which enteral feeding route is preferred for short-term nutrition support expected to last fewer than 4–6 weeks?

Accepted Answer

Nasogastric (NG) tube

Answer

Nasogastric tubes are preferred for short-term enteral access because they are easily placed without surgery or endoscopy.

Question 3

What is the standard caloric density of most isotonic enteral formulas?

Accepted Answer

1.0 kcal/mL

Answer

Standard isotonic enteral formulas provide 1.0 kcal/mL, suitable for patients with normal fluid and caloric requirements.

Question 4

Which of the following is an absolute contraindication for enteral nutrition?

Accepted Answer

Mechanical bowel obstruction

Answer

Mechanical bowel obstruction prevents normal GI transit, making any enteral feeding contraindicated until the obstruction is resolved.

Question 5

To reduce aspiration risk during continuous enteral feeding, the head of the bed should be elevated to at least:

Accepted Answer

30–45 degrees

Answer

Elevating the head of the bed to 30–45 degrees uses gravity to reduce gastric reflux and lower aspiration risk during enteral feeding.

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Practice Test

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Practice Test

Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Enteral & Parenteral Nutrition Support