Enteral nutrition is used when there is a functional GI tract. Advantages
over TPN include maintaining gut integrity, safety and lower costs.
Indications for use [from the American Society of Parenteral and Enteral
Nutrition (ASPEN) guidelines]
1. Protein-calorie malnutrition with inadequate oral intake of nutrients for
the previous 5 days
2. Normal nutrition status with less than 50% of required nutrient intake
orally for the previous 7-10 days.
3. Severe dysphagia (from stroke, brain tumor, head injury, multiple
sclerosis)
4. Major full thickness burns
5. Massive small bowel resection (up to 90%) in combination with
administration of TPN
6. Low output enterocutaneous fistula (less than 500 ml/day)
