Complications of long-term nasogastric feeding
Feb 27, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Chao
Introduction
Long-term nasal feeding may lead to decreased digestive function due to the inability to chew and swallow food through the mouth, as well as insufficient stimulation of digestive juice secretion after chyme enters the stomach. It may also cause mechanical damage to the nasal mucosa, resulting in inflammation of the nasal mucosa. Additionally, since food in the stomach can easily reflux through the cardia, esophagus, and oral cavity, it may lead to aspiration pneumonia.
Long-term nasogastric feeding complications generally include impaired gastrointestinal function, nasal mucosal inflammation, and aspiration pneumonia.
1. Impaired Gastrointestinal Function
Long-term nasogastric feeding may impair digestive function due to the absence of oral chewing and swallowing, as well as insufficient stimulation of digestive juice secretion after food enters the stomach.
2. Nasal Mucosal Inflammation
Prolonged nasogastric feeding may cause mechanical injury to the nasal mucosa, leading to inflammation characterized by mucosal erosion and bleeding.
3. Aspiration Pneumonia
After nasogastric feeding, gastric contents are more likely to reflux through the cardia, esophagus, and oral cavity, increasing the risk of accidental inhalation into the trachea and resulting in aspiration pneumonia.
In addition, complications such as nasal septal abscess or even perforation may occur; therefore, careful nursing care is required.
