Which are signs of intolerance during enteral tube feeding?

• A. Emesis, bloating/distention, constipation, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain.
• B. Increased appetite and energy.
• C. Rash and itching.
• D. Headache only.

Answer: (A)

Signs of intolerance to enteral tube feeding are GI-related symptoms that show the gut isn’t handling the nutrition well. Vomiting, bloating and abdominal distention, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, and abdominal pain reflect irritation, motility problems, or osmotic effects from the formula. When these occur, they indicate the need to reassess the feeding plan—consider slowing the rate, altering the formula, checking for high gastric residuals, or evaluating for issues like delayed gastric emptying or ileus. By contrast, increased appetite and energy aren’t typical signs of intolerance, while rash or itching may point to an allergy or skin reaction, and a headache on its own isn’t a classic indicator of feeding intolerance.