What is a potential complication of improper enteral feeding techniques?

Improper enteral feeding techniques can lead to a significant risk of aspiration, which occurs when food or liquid enters the airway instead of the esophagus during feeding. This can happen if the feeding tube is not positioned correctly in the stomach or if the individual is not in an appropriate upright position during feeding. Aspiration can result in serious complications, such as aspiration pneumonia, which is an infection of the lungs, and can lead to other respiratory issues.

The other options, such as increased nutritional absorption and weight gain, imply a positive outcome of enteral feeding, assuming the technique is correct. Improved gut health is also a beneficial expectation from proper enteral feeding practices. However, these benefits are contingent on the techniques being performed correctly; otherwise, the risk of aspiration becomes a critical concern.