In a patient receiving a continuous isotonic enteral formula who develops bloating and mild abdominal distention, what is the best initial strategy to reduce these symptoms?

• A. Initiate a bowel regimen if constipation suspected
• B. Hold enteral nutrition and initiate a pain reliever
• C. Switch to a higher fiber enteral nutrition formula
• D. Change to bolus feeding regimen

Answer: (A)

Bloating and mild abdominal distention during continuous enteral feeding are often due to slowed bowel transit or constipation. Addressing this possibility with a bowel regimen is the most appropriate first step because it targets the likely reversible cause without interrupting nutrition flow or making larger changes to the feeding plan. Initiating a bowel regimen—for example, stool softeners or laxatives as appropriate—can promote stool passage, reduce gas buildup, and relieve distension while continuing the same continuous formula. If symptoms improve, no further changes are needed; if not, reassessment for other factors like intolerance to the formula, gas production, or delayed gastric emptying should follow.