What nasogastric (NG) tube feeding regimen using Ensure (Ensure Plus) should be used to provide 1200 kcal per day initially and then increase to 1500 kcal per day?

Enteral feeding regimen for NG tube with Ensure Plus at 1200 to 1500 kcal/day

Ensure Plus provides 1.5 kcal/mL. [1] For continuous NG feeding, the daily volume equals target kcal/day ÷ 1.5 kcal/mL. [1]

Ensure Plus caloric density conversion

• Ensure Plus caloric density is 1.5 kcal/mL. [1]

Initial regimen for 1200 kcal/day

• Target calories: 1200 kcal/day. [1]
• Required volume: 1200 ÷ 1.5 = 800 mL/day. [1]
• Continuous rate over 24 hours: 800 ÷ 24 = 33 mL/hr. [1]

Increased regimen for 1500 kcal/day

• Target calories: 1500 kcal/day. [1]
• Required volume: 1500 ÷ 1.5 = 1000 mL/day. [1]
• Continuous rate over 24 hours: 1000 ÷ 24 = 42 mL/hr. [1]

Feed titration approach

Continuous tube feeding with full-strength formula is initiated at 25–50 mL/hr and advanced by 10–25 mL every 4–12 hours as tolerated until the goal rate is reached. [2]

Tube patency and water flushes

• Flush volume: minimum 20 mL free water every 4–6 hours. [2]

Administration method

A continuous infusion is delivered via an enteral feeding pump to provide a constant infusion rate. [2]