What monitoring parameters should be established for patients receivin

Guideline-aligned answer with reasoning, red flags and references. Clinically reviewed by Dr Kola Tytler MBBS CertHE MBA MRCGP.

Monitoring parameters for patients receiving enteral nutrition include:

Nutritional intake: Daily initially, reducing to twice weekly when stable, to ensure the patient is receiving the correct nutrients and volume, and to allow for adjustments if needed .
Fluid balance: Daily initially, reducing to twice weekly, to prevent overhydration or dehydration .
Gastrointestinal function: Daily initially, reducing to twice weekly, monitoring for nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal distension to assess tolerance of feeds .
Tube position and integrity: Before each feed, confirm nasogastric tube position using pH testing or markers, and daily check for nasal erosion, fixation security, and tube functionality (blockage or kink) .

What monitoring parameters should be established for patients receiving enteral nutrition to ensure efficacy and safety?