In transitioning from enteral tube to oral feeding, tube feeding may be discontinued when adequacy of oral intake meets at least:

• A. 50% of nutrient needs
• B. 33% of nutrient needs
• C. 90% of nutrient needs
• D. 66% of nutrient needs

Answer: (D)

The question is about when it’s appropriate to stop tube feeding as a patient transitions to eating by mouth. The guiding idea is to ensure the patient can meet the majority of their nutritional needs orally before discontinuing the tube, so that stopping the tube doesn’t risk undernutrition and the transition is safe and smooth.

The best threshold is when oral intake provides about two-thirds of the estimated nutrient needs. Meeting roughly sixty-six percent by mouth shows a solid and stable level of oral intake, giving a safety margin while the patient continues to gain confidence with eating and while monitoring tolerance, swallowing, hydration, and electrolyte balance. With the remaining portion supported as needed—temporarily via tube feeding or fortified foods—weight and nutrient status can be maintained during the transition.

Choosing a higher threshold, like ninety percent, could end the tube feeding too soon if oral intake isn’t reliably sustained, increasing the risk of insufficient nutrition. Lower thresholds, such as fifty or thirty-three percent, would leave too much dependence on the tube or too little oral intake to support nutrition adequately during the weaning process.