Nutritional Support on ICU

Question 1

Importance of nutritional support on ICU

Answer 1

they are in a hypermetabolic state (increased nutritional requirements)

high risk of malnutrition

Question 2

Enternal nutrition 
(what is it and modes of delivery)

Answer 2

Enteral nurtition means giving patient nutrition via their GI tract- Mouth

• NG tube
• Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) – a tube from the surface of the abdomen to the stomach

Question 3

Total parenteral nutrition (TPN)

what is it

Answer 3

volves meeting the complete nutritional requirements of the patient using an intravenous infusion of a solution of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals

Question 4

TPN indications

Answer 4

This is used where it is not possible to use the gastrointestinal tract for nutrition. It is prescribed under the guidance of a dietician. TPN is very irritant to veins and can cause thrombophlebitis, so it is normally given through a central line rather than a peripheral cannula