361 Protein and Energy Intake on Day 4 at the Picu: Predictor for Outcome?

Abstract

Background: Critically ill children are extremely vulnerable to develop malnutrition during stay on the intensive care. The aim of the study is to evaluate nutritional goals for protein and energy on day 4 of admission in relation with outcome.

Patients and Methods: Nutritional intake of 332 children (189 male, median age 0.13 year) with various diagnoses were analyzed on day 4. Goals for protein- and energy-intake were: 0-12 months ≥1.8 gr/kg/d, ≥1 yr ≥1.2 gr/kg/d and at least Resting Energy Expenditure + 30%. Malnutrition was defined as an SD-score for weight for age (WFA)< -2.

Results: The prevalence of malnutrition was 20% (60% male). Median length of hospital stay was 11 days (range 5-347). 47 children died. There was a sign. difference in protein intake and SD score between survivors and non-survivors >1 yr (1.7 vs 1.1 g/kg/dy and SD -0.7 vs -1.9). Overall protein intake was met in 65% and energy intake was met in 75%. Subgroup analysis showed that the lowest energy and protein intake was given in children aged 7-12 yr. There was no significant correlation between energy- or protein-intake and length of hospital stay.

Conclusion: The prevalence of malnutrition of children admitted to the PICU is high. On day 4 of admission approximately 2/3 of the children met their energy and protein goals. Children who died received significant less protein. Further research should focus on the relation between malnutrition and outcome parameters like respiratory and circulatory support and secondary infections.

Log in or create a free account to read this content

Gain free access to this article, as well as selected content from this journal and more on nature.com

Access through your institution

or

Sign in or create an account

Continue with Google

Continue with ORCiD