What is the correct positioning for a patient receiving a tube feeding?

The correct positioning for a patient receiving tube feeding is to have them sitting upright at least 30-45 degrees. This position helps minimize the risk of aspiration, which can occur if food or liquid enters the airway instead of the esophagus. When a patient is upright, gravity assists in the movement of the feed from the tube into the stomach, ensuring that it flows in the intended direction.

Maintaining this upright position also promotes better digestion and reduces the risk of reflux, which could lead to complications, including aspiration pneumonia. In clinical practice, it’s standard to have patients in this position during and for a period after the feeding to ensure safety and effectiveness.

While a 90-degree angle may seem ideal, it is often impractical and uncomfortable for extended periods, so the recommended 30-45 degrees is considered a safe and reasonable compromise.