CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What is the final location for a feeding tube?

1. Stomach

2. First part of the duodenum

3. Jejunum

4. Esophagus

The correct answer is: First part of the duodenum

The final location for a feeding tube can vary depending on the type of feeding tube used and the patient's specific needs. In the context of enteral feeding, a tube that is placed to deliver nutrition beyond the stomach is typically advanced to the first part of the duodenum. This ensures that the formula can be delivered directly into the digestive tract, allowing for proper absorption as it bypasses the stomach, which can be particularly beneficial in patients with certain medical conditions such as gastroparesis or reflux problems. Placement in the first part of the duodenum allows for the formulation to mix with the digestive enzymes and bile that are secreted into the duodenum, facilitating better nutrient absorption and digestion. While other options, like the stomach or jejunum, are also common locations for feeding tubes, the emphasis on the first part of the duodenum reflects a specific use case that can improve feeding tolerance and digestive efficiency in many patients requiring nutritional support. The esophagus is not typically a viable final location for a feeding tube, as it is not a storage or digesting area, and only serves as a passage to the stomach. Therefore, in clinical practice focused on enteral feeding paths, the first part of the duodenum is seen as