Which is the most appropriate nursing action when intermittently gavage-feeding a preterm newborn?

A) Allow formula to flow by gravity.
B) Insert tube through nares rather than mouth.
C) Avoid letting newborn suck on tube.
D) Apply steady pressure to syringe to deliver formula to stomach in a timely manner.

The formula is allowed to flow by gravity. The length of time to complete the feeding will vary. Preferably, the tube is inserted through the mouth. Newborns are obligatory nose breathers, and the presence of the tube in the nose irritates the nasal mucosa. Passage of the tube through the mouth allows the nurse to observe and evaluate the sucking response. The feeding should not be done under pressure. This procedure is not used as a timesaver for the nurse.