Which patient is at the greatest risk for complications related to tube feeding?

The patient with impaired swallowing after a stroke is at the greatest risk for complications related to tube feeding due to the challenges associated with their condition. After a stroke, individuals may experience dysphagia, which is a difficulty in swallowing. This increases the risk of aspiration, where food or liquid enters the airway, potentially leading to serious complications like aspiration pneumonia.

In this scenario, tube feeding may initially seem like a solution to bypass swallowing difficulties. However, if the patient has not been thoroughly evaluated for the safety of feeding, there may be significant concerns regarding how well they can tolerate enteral feedings without the risk of aspiration. Ultimately, this patient's condition and risk factors highlight the need for careful assessment and monitoring when initiating tube feeding.

Other patients mentioned may have specific risks associated with their situations, but they do not face the same immediate dangers associated with swallowing deficiencies that come into play with this option. For instance, a patient recovering from minor surgery may have temporary dietary restrictions but typically does not face the same level of risk. A patient with a gastrostomy tube has a tube already placed for feeding but may still require careful management. A patient receiving oral feeding may only need to avoid certain foods and does not have the inherent aspiration risk that accompanies swallowing difficulties following