Which of the following is a common symptom that might indicate complications in enteral feeding?

Absent bowel sounds can indicate complications in enteral feeding because they suggest a lack of intestinal motility or potential bowel obstruction. When a patient is receiving enteral nutrition, the presence of bowel sounds reflects an active and functioning gastrointestinal tract. If bowel sounds are diminished or absent, it may raise concerns about the patient's ability to effectively process the nutrition being provided, which could lead to complications such as aspiration, feeding intolerance, or more severe conditions like ileus or bowel obstruction.

Identifying absent bowel sounds as a sign of complications is crucial for healthcare providers to address potential issues early, ensuring the patient remains safe and properly nourished. In this context, monitoring bowel sounds is an important part of the assessment process in patients receiving enteral feeding.