Peri-Operative Nutrition Flashcards
What Physiological Stress does surgery lead to?
Hyper-metabolic state with a Catabolic response
What are some potential complications post-operatively in malnourished patients?
Reduced wound healing
Increased infection rates
Skin breakdown
What is the MUST criteria?
The Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool
Apart from MUST, what other nutrition assessment tools are available?
BMI
Grip Strength
Skin Fold Thickness
Mid Arm Circumference
Which route of nutrition is most preferred when suitable?
Enteral Nutrition via the oral route
What is the Hierarchy of feeding methods?
A chain to follow to determine the most appropriate feeding route for malnourished patients
When should Oral Nutritional Supplements be offered?
If the patient is unable to consume sufficient calories
When should feeding via an NGT be offered?
If the patient is unable to take sufficient calories orally, or has a dysfunctional swallow
When should feeding via a Gastrostomy be offered?
If the patient has a blockage to their oesophagus
When should feeding via a Jejunostomy be offered?
If the stomach is inaccessible, or there is an outflow obstruction
When should Parenteral nutrition be offered?
If the Jejenum is inaccessible or the patient has Intestinal Failure
Should malnourished patients have their surgery delayed until their nutrition improves?
No, while important to adress it should not delay surgery
Is serum albumin a marker of nutrition?
No - Serum albumin is not affected by feeding
What can cause a low serum albumin?
Chronic Inflammation
Protein-losing enteropathy
Proteinuria
Hepatic Dysfunction
