What is a common complication of enteral feeding?

A common complication of enteral feeding is emesis, or vomiting. This occurs when the stomach can’t effectively process the volume or type of feeding provided, leading to increased gastric residuals and subsequently triggering the vomiting reflex. Factors contributing to emesis during enteral feeding may include the rate of feeding, the formula used, and the patient's underlying medical conditions, such as delayed gastric emptying or intolerance to the feed.

While other complications exist, such as hypoglycemia, constipation, and air embolus, they are not as directly associated with the process of enteral feeding itself. Hypoglycemia may occur in patients with certain conditions or as a result of rapid changes in feeding, but it is less frequent specifically linked to enteral nutrition. Constipation can develop due to inadequate fiber intake or dehydration; however, it is often not an immediate consequence of the feeding process. Air embolus is a rare event that can occur during any form of feeding, but it is not a common complication of enteral feeding specifically. Thus, emesis is the most recognized and common complication that arises in this context.