Which formula is most likely to cause an occluded feeding tube?

Which formula is most likely to cause an occluded feeding tube?

• A. Low fat formula
• B. Low fiber formula
• C. Peptide based formula
• D. Calorically dense formula

Answer: (D)

Occlusion happens when the formula becomes too thick or forms a plug as it moves through a small-bore tube. Calorically dense formulas are more concentrated, so they have higher viscosity per milliliter. That increased thickness makes them more likely to stick to the inside of the tubing and clog the lumen, especially if the tube is narrow or if there are delays between administration and flushing. In contrast, low fat or low fiber formulas produce a lighter flow with fewer particulate loads, and peptide-based formulas are typically predigested and flow more readily. The key idea is that the more concentrated the formula, the greater the risk of a clog forming in the tube. Proper flushing and, when needed, using an appropriate tube size help mitigate this risk.

Occlusion happens when the formula becomes too thick or forms a plug as it moves through a small-bore tube. Calorically dense formulas are more concentrated, so they have higher viscosity per milliliter. That increased thickness makes them more likely to stick to the inside of the tubing and clog the lumen, especially if the tube is narrow or if there are delays between administration and flushing. In contrast, low fat or low fiber formulas produce a lighter flow with fewer particulate loads, and peptide-based formulas are typically predigested and flow more readily. The key idea is that the more concentrated the formula, the greater the risk of a clog forming in the tube. Proper flushing and, when needed, using an appropriate tube size help mitigate this risk.