What is the main purpose of a jejunostomy tube in the context of patient care?

The main purpose of a jejunostomy tube is primarily for long-term feeding in patients who are unable to meet their nutritional needs through oral intake. This is particularly essential for individuals who may have conditions affecting their ability to swallow, severe gastrointestinal disorders, or after certain surgeries that hinder normal food intake. The jejunostomy tube bypasses the digestive system above the jejunum and delivers nutrition directly into the small intestine, which allows for effective nutrient absorption while minimizing the risk of aspiration.

In the context of patient care, long-term feeding through a jejunostomy addresses the need for adequate caloric intake over an extended period, supporting recovery and maintaining overall health. This is especially critical in managing malnutrition or in situations where the gastrointestinal tract is functioning but oral feeding is not feasible for an extended timeframe.

Other options such as medication administration or fluid management might occur through a jejunostomy tube, yet they are not the primary function. Diagnostic purposes are not typically associated with jejunostomy tubes, which are designed specifically for nutritional delivery. Thus, the focus remains on long-term feeding as the central role of a jejunostomy tube in patient care.