What should be done if gastric residual is greater than 200 ml?

When gastric residual is greater than 200 ml, it is essential to report and hold the feeding due to concerns about potential complications such as aspiration or inadequate digestion. A high gastric residual can indicate that the stomach is not emptying effectively, which might lead to discomfort for the patient, increase the risk of aspiration, and suggest that the current feeding plan may need reassessment.

Holding the feeding allows for assessment and may prompt further evaluation of the patient's tolerance to the current enteral feeding protocol. By doing so, healthcare providers can determine appropriate interventions, which may include adjusting the feeding rate or schedule, further assessing the patient's gastrointestinal status, or considering the possibility of an underlying condition affecting gastric function. Prioritizing patient safety in this situation is crucial, which is why reporting the finding is a key step in managing the patient's care effectively.