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Enteral Feeding Dilemmas: Navigating the Impact of Bacterial Contamination in Hospitalized Populations Publisher



Fatemizadeh S1 ; Mahboobi H2 ; Moghtadaie A2 ; Sarmadian AJ3 ; Kamal MA4, 5, 6, 7
Authors
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Authors Affiliations
  1. 1. Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
  2. 2. Digestive Disease Research Institute, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
  3. 3. Liver and Gastrointestinal Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
  4. 4. Institutes for Systems Genetics, Frontiers Science Center for Disease-related Molecular Network, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Sichuan, Chengdu, China
  5. 5. King Fahd Medical Research Center, King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
  6. 6. Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, 1207, Bangladesh
  7. 7. Novel Global Community Educational Foundation, Enzymoics, Peterlee Place, Hebersham, 2770, NSW, Australia

Source: Current Nutrition and Food Science Published:2024


Abstract

Introduction: Enteral feeding is essential for hospitalized patients unable to consume oral nutrition. However, it poses a risk of bacterial contamination, leading to infections and increased morbidity and mortality. Methods: Studies have shown that contaminated enteral feeds are associated with longer hospital stays and worsened patient outcomes. Common pathogens include Gram-negative bacilli (e.g., Serratia spp., Klebsiella spp., Enterobacter spp.), coagulase-negative staphylococci, and Clostridium difficile. Preventing contamination requires identifying and mitigating potential routes. This comprehensive approach encompasses careful practices during production, storage, preparation, and administration of enteral feeds. Results: Early initiation of enteral feeding has also been linked to lower infection rates. Standardized protocols, hand hygiene adherence, routine monitoring for infection signs, and ongoing staff education are crucial for safe enteral feeding. Further research is needed to better understand risk factors for contamination and evaluate the effectiveness of preventive interventions. Conclusion: Addressing these knowledge gaps can significantly improve the quality of enteral feeding and reduce infection burden in hospitalized patients. © 2025 Bentham Science Publishers.
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