Describe cyclic feeding.

Describe cyclic feeding.

• A. Similar to the continuous infusion method, except that the rate of formula delivery increases allowing patients to meet nutrient goals with an infusion period less than 24 hours down to as few as 8 hours
• B. Intermittent feedings delivered by pump over 20-60 minutes
• C. Bolus feeding infused over 4-10 minutes
• D. Delivered via gravity drip

Answer: (A)

Cyclic feeding delivers enteral nutrition with a pump for a defined block of time shorter than 24 hours, usually overnight, so total daily calories are provided in a shorter window. The rate is increased so the same daily nutrient goals are met within that shorter period, sometimes as little as 8 hours. This setup preserves the amount of nutrition but creates a period each day without feeding, which can improve tolerance and give the patient more freedom during waking hours. Intermittent feedings, delivered in 20–60 minutes multiple times a day, or bolus feedings infused quickly, are separate patterns and do not capture the continuous, shortened-duration approach of cyclic feeding. Gravity-based delivery is another method and is not the pump-driven, time-limited pattern characteristic of cyclic feeding.

Cyclic feeding delivers enteral nutrition with a pump for a defined block of time shorter than 24 hours, usually overnight, so total daily calories are provided in a shorter window. The rate is increased so the same daily nutrient goals are met within that shorter period, sometimes as little as 8 hours. This setup preserves the amount of nutrition but creates a period each day without feeding, which can improve tolerance and give the patient more freedom during waking hours. Intermittent feedings, delivered in 20–60 minutes multiple times a day, or bolus feedings infused quickly, are separate patterns and do not capture the continuous, shortened-duration approach of cyclic feeding. Gravity-based delivery is another method and is not the pump-driven, time-limited pattern characteristic of cyclic feeding.