In a patient on enteral nutrition with abdominal distention, which intervention is recommended to reduce distention?

• A. Stop feeding
• B. Increase feeding rate
• C. Switch to bolus regimen
• D. Aggressive bowel regimens

Answer: (D)

Abdominal distention during enteral feeding is often due to slowed bowel motility and constipation. The most effective way to relieve it is to promote bowel movements and gas clearance with an aggressive bowel regimen. Using stool softeners and laxatives (for example, a combination of a stool softener with a stimulant or osmotic laxative) helps move stool through the gut and reduces stool burden and gas accumulation that contribute to distention. Adequate hydration and monitoring are important to ensure safe use of these agents and to adjust for any electrolyte imbalances.

Stopping the feeding would reduce volume but doesn’t address the underlying constipation and can lead to undernutrition. Increasing the feeding rate or switching to a bolus regimen can worsen distention by increasing the gut’s load and gas production. If distention persists despite a bowel regimen or if there are signs of obstruction, further assessment is needed.