What does the term gavage refer to?

Gavage refers specifically to the process of providing tube feedings, typically through a nasogastric tube or other feeding tube. This method is utilized to supply nutrition to patients who are unable to eat by mouth due to various reasons, such as medical conditions or recovery from surgery. The technique allows healthcare providers to deliver a precise amount of liquid nutrients directly into the stomach, ensuring that the patient receives necessary food and hydration.

While the insertion of a nasogastric tube is a component of the gavage process, the term itself emphasizes the act of feeding rather than the method of access. Therefore, the correct answer focuses on the broader context of providing nutrition, which is the primary purpose of gavage. The other choices, such as methods of physical therapy or techniques for medication administration, do not accurately capture the specific meaning of gavage in a clinical setting.