American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Practice Test

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What is the most significant complication associated with tube feeding via the gut?

Dumping syndrome
Infection
Delay in gastric emptying
Electrolyte imbalance

The correct answer is: Dumping syndrome

The most significant complication associated with tube feeding via the gut is dumping syndrome. This condition occurs when food, especially high-sugar content, moves too quickly from the stomach into the small intestine. This rapid transition can lead to uncomfortable and potentially severe symptoms that include abdominal cramps, nausea, diarrhea, and dizziness. Dumping syndrome is particularly pertinent in patients who may have compromised gut integrity or altered gastrointestinal physiology, such as those who have undergone certain types of surgery (e.g., gastric bypass). Understanding this complication is critical for healthcare providers when managing patients receiving enteral nutrition. By monitoring and adjusting the rate and composition of tube feeds, clinicians can help minimize the occurrence of dumping syndrome. This proactive approach is essential for promoting patient comfort and ensuring adequate nutritional absorption, thus enhancing overall recovery and health outcomes in critically ill patients.