In which position should a resident be placed when tube feeding is being administered?

When administering tube feeding, the resident should be positioned in a semi-Fowler's position, which involves raising the head of the bed to between 30 and 45 degrees. This position is critically important for several reasons.

Firstly, having the resident in semi-Fowler's position helps promote proper digestion and reduces the risk of aspiration. Aspiration occurs when food or liquid enters the airway and lungs instead of the stomach, which can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia. By keeping the head elevated, the natural anatomy of the esophagus and trachea is aligned in a way that minimizes this risk.

Moreover, this position aids in gravity-assisted feeding, allowing for a smoother flow of the feeding solution into the stomach. It also promotes comfort for the resident during the feeding process, as lying flat can cause discomfort or lead to feelings of fullness that may arise during tube feeding.

In contrast, positions like supine (lying flat) would not provide the necessary elevation to achieve these benefits. The prone position (lying face down) is unsuitable for tube feeding due to the risk of choking and aspiration. Lastly, the Trendelenburg position (where the head is lower than the feet) is contraindicated for tube feeding, as it can significantly increase the risk of