In transitioning from enteral tube to oral feeding, discontinue when adequacy of oral intake meets at least what percent of nutrient needs?

• A. 33%
• B. 66%
• C. 50%
• D. 90%

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that you transition from tube feeding to oral intake only after the patient’s oral consumption provides a substantial portion of estimated nutrient needs, so their nutritional status remains stable as you taper the tube feed. The best threshold is about two-thirds of the estimated needs (roughly 66%). This provides enough buffer to account for daily variations in intake and still ensure most of the energy and protein come from oral intake. Once oral intake consistently meets around 66% of needs, you can discontinue enteral nutrition, while continuing to monitor intake and nutrition status. If oral intake is not reaching that level, or is highly variable, continue enteral feeding (or adjust as clinically indicated) to prevent undernutrition.