Nasogastric Tube Feeding for Individuals With Anorexia Nervosa: An Integrative Review. (November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kells, Meredith; Kelly-Weeder, Susan
• Is Part Of: Journal of the American Psychiatric Nurses Association. Volume 22:Number 6(2016:Nov./Dec.)
• Page Start: 449
• Page End: 468
• Publication Date: 2016-11
• Subjects: enteral feeding -- nasogastric tube feeding -- anorexia nervosa -- eating disorders -- malnutrition; Psychiatric nursing -- Periodicals; 616.890231
• DOI: 10.1177/1078390316657872
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1078-3903

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The use of nasogastric (NG) feeding in individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN) is endorsed by national professional organizations; however, no guidelines currently exist.OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this review were to identify and evaluate outcomes of NG feedings for individuals with AN and to develop recommendations for future research, policy, and practice.DESIGN: An integrative review of the research literature was conducted.RESULTS: Of the 19 studies reviewed, all indicated short-term weight gain following NG feeding. Four studies examined adherence; nearly 30% of subjects were nonadherent as evidenced by tube manipulation. Seven studies reported psychiatric outcomes, suggesting NG feeding reduces eating disorder behaviors but not overall symptomology.CONCLUSIONS: NG feeding promotes short-term weight gain; however, long-term outcomes are poorly understood. Future research, using rigorous methods, is still needed to inform practice.