Continuous infusion of enteral nutrition in critically ill patients may lower the risk of aspiration by preventing gastric distention.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Not sure
• D. Irrelevant

Answer: (A)

Keeping a steady, continuous delivery of formula reduces gastric distention, which lowers the risk of aspiration in critically ill patients. When the stomach fills quickly with large volumes, pressure can promote reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus, and impaired airway protection in the critically ill makes aspiration more likely. Delivering nutrition continuously minimizes these large fluctuations in gastric volume, helping to prevent reflux and aspiration. This concept fits with overall strategies to reduce aspiration risk, such as elevating the head of the bed and monitoring tolerance. So the statement is true because continuous infusion helps keep gastric volume more stable and less distended, decreasing the chance of aspirating stomach contents.