What is the recommended water flush amount between medications when administering via enteral tube?

• A. 60-90 mL
• B. 15-30 mL
• C. 5-10 mL
• D. 100-150 mL

Answer: (B)

Ensuring the enteral tube remains patent and that each medication fully reaches the gut requires a small, deliberate amount of water between medications. The flush serves to clear any residual drug from the syringe and tubing so the next medication isn’t missed or inadvertently diluted, and it helps push the medication into the GI tract rather than allowing it to cling to the tube. The volume should be enough to clear the line but not so large that it disrupts ongoing feeding or risks fluid overload. For most adults, about 15 to 30 mL is the standard between medications. Larger flushes, such as 60–90 mL or 100–150 mL, can unnecessarily increase fluid intake and dilute feeds, while too small a flush (5–10 mL) may not adequately clear the line and increase the chance of tube occlusion.