A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving a continuous enteral tube feeding and develops diarrhea. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Provide the client with low-calorie formula: The calorie content of the formula is not typically responsible for diarrhea. Diarrhea is more often related to formula intolerance, contamination, or rapid feeding rates rather than calorie density. B. Increase the rate of the client's feeding: Increasing the rate can worsen diarrhea by overwhelming the gastrointestinal system, leading to poor absorption and increased fluid loss. Slower rates are often needed if diarrhea occurs. C. Switch the client to a formula containing less protein: Protein content is usually not the cause of diarrhea. Specialized formulas may be needed for certain conditions, but protein itself is not typically a trigger for diarrhea. D. Administer the client's formula at room temperature: Cold formula can cause gastric cramping and diarrhea. Administering the formula at room temperature helps reduce gastrointestinal irritation and promotes better tolerance of the feeding.