Normally enteral feedings are flushed with water to open blocked tubes and ease feeding. In which
area is it done with air?

Correct option is A

· NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit): In the NICU, flushing enteral feeding tubes with air is preferred over water to minimize the risk of fluid overload in neonates, who have limited tolerance to extra fluid volume. Air flushing also helps confirm tube placement safely in these delicate patients.
· Operation unit: Enteral feeding is rarely performed in the operation unit. Flushing tubes with air in this setting is not common practice, as feeding tubes are generally managed postoperatively or outside the operating room.
· Rehabilitation unit: In the rehabilitation unit, flushing enteral feeding tubes with water is standard, as patients typically have better fluid tolerance and do not require the precautions taken for neonates or critically ill patients.
· Critical care unit: In critical care units, water is commonly used to flush feeding tubes unless contraindicated. Air may be used in specific situations, but this is less frequent compared to practices in the NICU.
Additional Information:
· Operation unit - where the surgeries are performed usually minor and major OT can be seen in hospitals
· Rehabilitation - care given for the patient to prevent adverse complications
· Hospice care - focuses on comfort and quality of life of patient who is having serious illness