What complication can manifest as a result of rapid weight gain during enteral feeding?

Refeeding syndrome is a critical complication that can arise from rapid weight gain during enteral feeding, particularly in individuals who have been malnourished or are recovering from prolonged fasting. When a person starts receiving nutrition through enteral feeding after a period of inadequate intake, the body may react to the sudden influx of carbohydrates. This triggers an increase in insulin production, leading to a shift of electrolytes from the serum into the cells.

This shift can result in significant electrolyte imbalances, particularly deficiencies in phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium. These imbalances can cause severe complications such as cardiac arrhythmias, respiratory failure, and neurologic disturbances. Therefore, monitoring and gradually increasing caloric intake is crucial to prevent this syndrome, emphasizing that careful management is required when reintroducing nutrition to at-risk patients.

The other options do not directly relate to the specific mechanism or consequences associated with rapid weight gain during enteral feeding. While dumping syndrome, choking, and cramping are potential issues with feeding, they are not tied to the rapid metabolic and electrolyte changes characteristic of refeeding syndrome. Thus, the importance of recognizing and preventing refeeding syndrome is vital for patient safety in the context of enteral nutrition.