Which of the following describes an optimal method of preparing and administering medications via an enteral feeding tube?

• A. Crush tablets and add directly into enteral formula
• B. Administer liquid formulations undiluted
• C. Flush the tube with water before and after each medication administered
• D. Add crushed tablets to liquid medications

Answer: (C)

Keeping the enteral tube patent and ensuring the drug reaches the stomach is essential for safe and effective administration. Flushing the tube with water before and after each medication clears residual formula and medication, prevents occlusion, and helps ensure the full dose is delivered through the tube. This practice also minimizes potential interactions between drugs and the enteral formula. While using liquid formulations is preferable when possible, simply giving them undiluted does not address tube patency or drug delivery accuracy. Crushing tablets or adding them to formula can change release properties, increase clogging risk, and compromise dosing. Therefore, flushing before and after each medication is the best approach.