Which enteral nutrition delivery method is preferred for critically ill patients?

• A. Bolus feeding
• B. Cyclic feeding
• C. Intermittent feeding
• D. Continuous infusion

Answer: (D)

In critical illness, delivering nutrients steadily is key to supporting gut function while minimizing complications. A continuous infusion provides a constant rate of formula over 24 hours, usually with an infusion pump. This steady delivery helps prevent large-volume boluses that can overwhelm a sluggish or stressed digestive system, reducing residual volumes, reflux, and the risk of aspiration. It also smooths nutrient intake, improving tolerance and contributing to more stable glycemic control and overall metabolic demands.

Once a patient stabilizes and can tolerate more variability, other methods like cyclic feeding (overnight or timed pauses) or intermittent feeds may be considered, but the initial and most protective approach in the ICU is continuous infusion.