Which factor contributes to abdominal distention due to gas, specifically excess air in the stomach or intestines?

• A. Rapid administration of feeding
• B. Excess air in the stomach or intestines
• C. Infection
• D. Cold formula

Answer: (B)

Gas accumulation in the gastrointestinal tract is what drives abdominal distention in this context. When there is excess air in the stomach or intestines, that air expands the lumen and makes the abdomen feel and look bloated. In enteral feeding scenarios, air can accumulate from swallowing air during feeding, from delivering feeds too rapidly, or from inadequate venting of the tubing—all of which increase the amount of gas present in the GI tract.

Other factors like infection can contribute to distention indirectly through effects on motility or inflammation, and cold formula might affect tolerance or comfort, but the direct cause of distention from gas is the excess air in the stomach and intestines.