How often should patients receiving intermittent tube feeding be fed?

Patients receiving intermittent tube feeding should be fed 4-6 times daily to ensure they receive adequate nutrition while also allowing the body to effectively digest and absorb the nutrients. This method mimics more natural eating patterns, thus supporting better gastrointestinal function and reducing the risk of complications such as gastric residual volume issues or aspiration.

Feeding 4-6 times daily also helps in providing a steady supply of nutrients, minimizing the risk of overloading the stomach at one time, which can happen with less frequent feedings, such as once daily. This frequency strikes a balance between providing nourishment and allowing periods of rest for digestive processes, critical for patients who may be critically ill or have altered gastrointestinal function.

Additionally, feeding every hour or more frequently can overwhelm the digestive system, while once daily feeding is generally insufficient to meet nutritional needs adequately. Therefore, 4-6 times daily is the most appropriate regimen for maintaining nutrition in patients requiring intermittent tube feedings.