What is the primary risk associated with using bolus feeding in enteral nutrition?

The primary risk associated with using bolus feeding in enteral nutrition is high residual volumes. Bolus feeding involves delivering a larger volume of formula or nutrients at once, typically through a syringe. This method can lead to a situation where the stomach does not empty as efficiently, resulting in high residual volumes. High residuals can indicate that the patient is not tolerating the feed well, which could lead to complications such as aspiration or gastrointestinal discomfort.

Monitoring residual volumes is crucial as excessive residual might suggest that the feeding rate needs to be adjusted or that there is a need for further assessment of the patient's gastrointestinal function. Therefore, understanding the implications of high residuals is essential for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of enteral nutrition in patients.