Which intervention is recommended to prevent feeding tube occlusion during GRV assessment in adults?

• A. Flush the feeding tube with 30 mL of water following GRV assessment
• B. Place the patient in reverse Trendelenburg prior to GRV assessment
• C. Hold enteral feedings 1 hour prior to GRV assessment
• D. Instill 60 mL of air into the tube prior to GRV assessment

Answer: (A)

Keeping the feeding tube patent after measuring gastric residual volume is essential. Flushing the tube with 30 mL of water following the GRV check actively clears residual formula and mucus that can clog the lumen, reducing the risk of occlusion and allowing continued safe feeding. Water is preferred because it’s nonnutritive and safe, and it won’t alter future measurements or electrolyte balance. Instilling air into the tube doesn’t reliably prevent occlusion and can distort GRV assessment or pose other risks. Position changes or holding feeds around the GRV assessment don’t address blockage directly and can complicate nutrition management. So, a 30 mL water flush after GRV assessment best prevents tube occlusion.