Which of the following is a benefit of closed enteral feeding systems?

• A. Maximum hang time of 8-12 hours
• B. Packaging amenable to addition of medication or modular
• C. Decreased incidence of gastric intolerance
• D. Decreased risk for microbial contamination

Answer: (D)

Closed enteral feeding systems reduce the risk of microbial contamination by providing a sealed, sterile path for formula from the container to the patient with minimal handling and fewer disconnections. This containment protects the formula from environmental microbes and limits opportunities for contamination during delivery and administration, making decreased microbial contamination the most evident benefit. Hang times are not a universal, fixed advantage of closed systems and depend on policy and system type; adding medications or modular components into the closed line is typically avoided to preserve sterility, and gastric tolerance is influenced more by rate, volume, and patient factors than by the system being closed.