title: The effect of dietary fiber in tube-fed elderly patients.
abstract: Diarrhea is a common problem with potentially serious consequences for elderly tube-fed patients. A review of the literature indicates that diarrhea has been associated with the use of antibiotics, low blood albumin concentration, and a lack of fiber in the diet. This study documents the observed effect of dietary fiber on the incidence of diarrhea in 50 tube-fed patients. Over a 3-week period, patients who received fiber-containing formula had fewer liquid/loose stools than patients who received fiber-free formula. Nurses who care for elderly, tube-fed patients can help to improve outcomes by advocacy and interdisciplinary collaboration with registered dietitians and primary providers and by teaching assistive staff the importance of accurate recording of bowel function.
authors.forename: D J
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Bass
authors.forename: L P
authors.initials: LP
authors.lastname: Forman
authors.forename: S E
authors.initials: SE
authors.lastname: Abrams
authors.forename: A M
authors.initials: AM
authors.lastname: Hsueh
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003967:Diarrhea / Q000209:etiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004043:Dietary Fiber / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D004750:Enteral Nutrition / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D008134:Long-Term Care; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012189:Retrospective Studies