Guía de práctica clínica para el manejo de la nutrición enteral en el recién nacido prematuro con muy bajo peso al nacer / Guide to Clinical Practice for the Management of Enteral Nutrition in the Premature Newborn with Very Low Birth Weight

El bajo peso al nacer (BPN) se define como un peso inferior a 2500 g, según la Organización Mundial de la Salud (OMS). A la vez el BPN se clasifica a su vez en muy bajo peso al nacer (MBPN, <1500 g) y extremadamente bajo peso al nacer (EBPN, <1000 g) [1]. Los recién nacidos con muy bajo peso al nacer (MBPN) comprenden entre el 4 y el 8% de los nacidos vivos, pero un tercio de las muertes durante el periodo neonatal se producen en este grupo de recién nacidos [2]. La nutrición postnatal es importante en estos recién nacidos para conseguir un crecimiento postnatal similar al crecimiento fetal y que vaya acompañado de resultados de desarrollo adecuados a largo plazo [3-5]. Sin embargo, la restricción del crecimiento postnatal (RCP) se observa con frecuencia en muchos de los RNMBPN en las unidades de cuidados intensivos neonatales durante las primeras semanas y meses de vida [6, 7]. Por ello, el Seguro Social de Salud (EsSalud) priorizó la realización de la presente guía de práctica clínica (GPC) para establecer lineamientos basados en evidencia y gestionar de la mejor manera los procesos y procedimientos asistenciales para el manejo de la nutrición enteral en el recién nacido prematuro con muy bajo peso al nacer. Esta GPC fue realizada por la Dirección de Guías de Práctica Clínica, Farmacovigilancia y Tecnovigilancia del Instituto de Evaluación de Tecnologías en Salud e Investigación (IETSI) de EsSalud.

Nitrogen balance in mechanically ventilated obese patients / Balanço nitrogenado em pacientes obesos em ventilação mecânica invasiva

ABSTRACT Objective This study aimed to evaluate if the protein intake recommendations for obese critically ill requiring mechanical ventilation are sufficient to promote a positive or neutral nitrogen balance. Methods Cross-sectional study that included 25 obese, ≥18 years old, undergoing mechanical ventilation and who were target to receive high-protein enteral nutrition therapy (2.0-2.5g/kg ideal body weight). Clinical, nutritional and biochemical variables were analyzed. Nitrogen balance was performed when patient was receiving full enteral nutrition therapy and was classified: positive when intake was greater than excretion; negative when excretion was greater than intake; neutral when both were equal. Results The characteristics of patients evaluated were 64.1±9.4 years old, clinical treatment 88%, body mass index 36.5±5.1kg/m2, nitrogen balance 0.3g/day (-5.3 to 4.8g/day), protein intake 2.1g/day (2.0-2.3g/kg) ideal body weight. Of individuals analyzed, 52% showed positive or neutral nitrogen balance with median of 4.23g/day 2.41 to 6.40g/day) in comparison to negative group with median of -5.27g/day (-10.38 to -3.86g/day). Adults had higher ratio of negative nitrogen balance (57.1%) than elderly (44.4%), with protein intake of 2.0 versus 2.1g/day, respectively. No correlation was found between nitrogen balance and variables assessed. Conclusion High-protein enteral nutrition therapy contributed to positive or neutral nitrogen balance for approximately half of obese ventilated individuals. With similar protein intake, elderly showed a higher proportion of positive or neutral nitrogen balance. Nitrogen balance can be influenced by various factors, so further studies are required to identify different protein needs in obese critically.

RESUMO Objetivo Avaliar se as recomendações de ingestão proteica para obesos em ventilação mecânica invasiva são suficientes para promover balanço nitrogenado positivo ou em equilíbrio. Métodos Estudo transversal que analisou 25 obesos adultos, em ventilação mecânica invasiva e submetidos à terapia nutricional enteral hiperproteica (2,0-2,5g/kg de peso ideal). Variáveis clínicas, nutricionais e bioquímicas foram analisadas. O balanço nitrogenado foi realizado após a oferta plena da nutrição enteral e classificado como: positivo quando ingestão maior que excreção; negativo quando excreção maior que ingestão; neutro quando ambas foram iguais. Resultados As características dos pacientes avaliados foram idade 64,1±9,4 anos, índice de massa corporal 36,5±5,1kg/m2, tratamento clínico 88%, balanço nitrogenado 0,3g/dia (-5,3 a 4,8g/dia), ingestão proteica 2,1g/dia (2,0-2,3g/kg) de peso ideal. Dos indivíduos analisados, 52% apresentaram balanço nitrogenado positivo ou neutro com mediana de 4,23g/dia (2,41 a 6,40g/dia), comparado ao grupo com balanço negativo -5,27g/dia (-10,38 a -3,86g/dia). Adultos apresentaram maior proporção de balanço nitrogenado negativo (57,1%) do que idosos (44,4%), respectivamente, com ingestão proteica semelhante de 2,0 versus 2,1g/dia. Não foi observada correlação entre balanço nitrogenado e variáveis analisadas. Conclusão A terapia nutricional enteral hiperproteica promoveu um balanço nitrogenado positivo ou neutro em cerca de metade dos obesos em ventilação mecânica invasiva. Com ingestão proteica semelhante, idosos apresentaram maior proporção de balanço positivo ou neutro do que adultos. O balanço nitrogenado pode ser influenciado por diversos fatores e por esse motivo mais estudos são necessários para identificar diferentes necessidades proteicas em pacientes obesos críticos.

Manual de monitorização do volume prescrito e infundido em terapia nutricional enteral / Manual for monitoring the volume prescribed and infused in enteral nutritional therapy

Esse Manual foi elaborado com a intenção de orientá-lo, quanto a importância do controle do prescrito e infundido na terapia nutricional enteral. Contém informações bem simples e seguras e que abrange toda a equipe multiprofissional.

High Frequency of Non-Compliance with Quality Indicators of Enteral and Parenteral Nutritional Therapy in Hospitalized Patients.

Quality indicators in nutritional therapy (QINT) are measures of the effectiveness and quality of nutrition support. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the frequency of the QINT adequacy of Enteral Nutritional Therapy (EN) and/or Parenteral (PN) in hospitalized patients and identify the best indicators according to health professionals. A prospective study was performed, including data from patients aged 18 years or over admitted to clinical or surgical wards. The patients who had received EN and/or PN were followed from the first day of nutritional prescription until discharge. Twelve indicators were calculated, as recommended by the literature. Regarding professional opinion, the QINT adequacy was evaluated by observing its utility, simplicity, objectivity, and cost. Of the 727 hospitalized patients, 101 were on EN and/or PN. Regarding the 12 QINT evaluated, only 25% (3) achieved the goals: involuntary withdrawal of enteral feeding tube (0.01%); feeding tube occlusion or withdrawal per occlusion (0%); the measurement of energy and protein requirements (92%). A high frequency of non-compliance (75% of QINT) was observed in clinical and surgical patients on EN and/or PN. With knowledge of the six best indicators chosen by health professionals in this service, it will be possible to elaborate protocols according to the real-life situation in the institution.

Quality improvement programme reduces errors in oral medication preparation and administration through feeding tubes.

BACKGROUND: Patients with nasogastric/nasoenteric tube (NGT/NET) are at increased risk of adverse outcomes due to errors occurring during oral medication preparation and administration. AIM: To implement a quality improvement programme to reduce the proportion of errors in oral medication preparation and administration through NGT/NET in adult patients. METHODS: An observational study was carried out, comparing outcome measures before and after implementation of the integrated quality programme to improve oral medication preparation and administration through NGT/NET. A collaborative approach based on Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycle was used and feedback was given during multidisciplinary meetings. INTERVENTIONS: Good practice guidance for oral medication preparation and administration through NGT/NET was developed and implemented at the hospital sites; nurses were given formal training to use the good practice guidance; a printed list of oral medications that should never be crushed was provided to all members of the multidisciplinary team, and a printed table containing therapeutic alternatives for drugs that should never be crushed was provided to prescribers at the prescribing room. RESULTS: Improvement was observed in the following measures: crushing enteric-coated tablets and mixing drugs during medication preparation (from 54.9% in phase I to 26.2% in phase II; p 0.0010) and triturating pharmaceutical form of modified action or dragee (from 32.8 in phase I to 19.7 in phase II; p 0.0010). Worsening was observed though in the following measures: crush compressed to a fine and homogeneous powder (from 7.4%% in phase I to 95% phase II; p 0.0010) and feeding tube obstruction (from 41.8% in phase I to 52.5% phase II; p 0.0950). CONCLUSION: Our results highlight how a collaborative quality improvement approach based on PDSA cycles can meet the challenge of reducing the proportion of errors in oral medication preparation and administration through NGT/NET in adult patients. Some changes may lead to unintended consequences though. Thus, continuous monitoring for these consequences will help caregivers to prevent poor patient outcomes.

Pediatric enteral nutrition therapy for burn victims: when should it be initiated? / Terapia nutricional enteral pediátrica para vítimas de queimaduras: quando iniciar?

OBJECTIVE: To review the scientific evidence regarding the initiation of enteral nutrition in the pediatric burn population. METHODS: This study was a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials comparing early enteral nutrition and late enteral nutrition in individuals aged 1 month to 18 years with burns. The MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library databases were searched using the terms "burns", "fires", "child nutrition disorders", "nutritional support" and related terms. RESULTS: Three articles that included a total of 781 patients were identified. There was no significant difference in the mortality rate between the early and late groups (OR = 0.72, 95%CI = 0.46 - 1.15, p = 0.17). Patients who received early enteral nutrition had a 3.69-day reduction in the length of hospital stay (mean difference = -3.69, 95%CI = -4.11 - -3.27, p < 0.00001). There was a higher incidence of diarrhea and vomiting and decreased intestinal permeability in the early group. This group also presented higher a serum insulin concentration and insulin/glucagon ratio as well as lower caloric deficit and weight loss when compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: Analysis of the different intragroup variables suggests the importance of starting nutritional support early. Considering the number of pediatric burn patients, there is a need for robust studies with greater scientific impact.

OBJETIVO: Revisar as evidências científicas que reportem o período de início da nutrição enteral na população pediátrica vítima de queimadura e seus achados. MÉTODOS: Revisão sistemática e metanálise de estudos clínicos randomizados comparando nutrição enteral precoce e nutrição enteral tardia em indivíduos de 1 mês de idade a 18 anos com queimaduras. As bases de dados MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase e Cochrane Library foram acessadas utilizando os termos "burns", "fires", "child nutrition disorders", "nutritional support" e termos relacionados. RESULTADOS: Três artigos foram identificados, sendo incluídos 781 pacientes. Não houve diferença significativa na taxa de mortalidade entre os grupos precoce e tardio (RC = 0,72; IC95% 0,46 - 1,15; p = 0,17). Pacientes que receberam nutrição enteral precoce tiveram o tempo de internação reduzido em 3,69 dias (diferença média = -3,69; IC95% -4,11 - -3,27; p < 0,00001). Houve maior incidência de diarreia e vômito, além de diminuição da permeabilidade intestinal no grupo precoce. Esse grupo também apresentou concentração maior de insulina sérica e relação insulina/glucagon, além de menor déficit calórico e perda ponderal em comparação com o grupo controle. CONCLUSÃO: As análises das diferentes variáveis intragrupos sugerem a importância de iniciar o suporte nutricional de forma precoce. A necessidade de estudos robustos com maior impacto científico é importante, considerando o número de casos de queimaduras em pacientes pediátricos.

Terapia nutricional enteral pediátrica para vítimas de queimaduras: quando iniciar? / Pediatric enteral nutrition therapy for burn victims: when should it be initiated?

RESUMO Objetivo: Revisar as evidências científicas que reportem o período de início da nutrição enteral na população pediátrica vítima de queimadura e seus achados. Métodos: Revisão sistemática e metanálise de estudos clínicos randomizados comparando nutrição enteral precoce e nutrição enteral tardia em indivíduos de 1 mês de idade a 18 anos com queimaduras. As bases de dados MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase e Cochrane Library foram acessadas utilizando os termos "burns", "fires", "child nutrition disorders", "nutritional support" e termos relacionados. Resultados: Três artigos foram identificados, sendo incluídos 781 pacientes. Não houve diferença significativa na taxa de mortalidade entre os grupos precoce e tardio (RC = 0,72; IC95% 0,46 - 1,15; p = 0,17). Pacientes que receberam nutrição enteral precoce tiveram o tempo de internação reduzido em 3,69 dias (diferença média = -3,69; IC95% -4,11 - -3,27; p < 0,00001). Houve maior incidência de diarreia e vômito, além de diminuição da permeabilidade intestinal no grupo precoce. Esse grupo também apresentou concentração maior de insulina sérica e relação insulina/glucagon, além de menor déficit calórico e perda ponderal em comparação com o grupo controle. Conclusão: As análises das diferentes variáveis intragrupos sugerem a importância de iniciar o suporte nutricional de forma precoce. A necessidade de estudos robustos com maior impacto científico é importante, considerando o número de casos de queimaduras em pacientes pediátricos.

ABSTRACT Objective: To review the scientific evidence regarding the initiation of enteral nutrition in the pediatric burn population. Methods: This study was a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials comparing early enteral nutrition and late enteral nutrition in individuals aged 1 month to 18 years with burns. The MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase and Cochrane Library databases were searched using the terms "burns", "fires", "child nutrition disorders", "nutritional support" and related terms. Results: Three articles that included a total of 781 patients were identified. There was no significant difference in the mortality rate between the early and late groups (OR = 0.72, 95%CI = 0.46 - 1.15, p = 0.17). Patients who received early enteral nutrition had a 3.69-day reduction in the length of hospital stay (mean difference = -3.69, 95%CI = -4.11 - -3.27, p < 0.00001). There was a higher incidence of diarrhea and vomiting and decreased intestinal permeability in the early group. This group also presented higher a serum insulin concentration and insulin/glucagon ratio as well as lower caloric deficit and weight loss when compared to the control group. Conclusion: Analysis of the different intragroup variables suggests the importance of starting nutritional support early. Considering the number of pediatric burn patients, there is a need for robust studies with greater scientific impact.

[Home Enteral Nutrition (NED) in children and adolescents. Recommendations of the Nutrition Branch of the Chilean Society of Pediatrics]. / Nutrición Enteral Domiciliaria (NED) en niños y adolescentes. Recomendaciones de la Rama de Nutrición de la Sociedad Chilena de Pediatría.

The use of home enteral or parenteral nutrition has been a necessary step in the optimization of nu tritional support in patients who, due to several diseases, fail to meet their nutritional requirements by oral feeding. This article presents the recommendations of the Chilean Pediatric Society Nutritio nal Branch, aimed at health teams that treat pediatric patients who require enteral feeding for a long time. The general objective is to provide guidelines for the proper management of these patients. It describes the ideal conformation of the health team for the care and follow-up of those patients, the program admission criteria, and its evaluation method over time. In addition, it describes general characteristics of enteral feeding, routes of administration, available enteral formulas, complications, and patient follow-up.

Enteral diet therapy: use of the Lean Healthcare philosophy in process improvement.

OBJECTIVE: To identify the nonconformities of the enteral diet therapy process. METHOD: Exploratory case study, using as a theoretical framework the philosophy of Lean Healthcare in an inpatient unit of a large hospital in Minas Gerais State. The sample consisted of 19 professionals from the multidisciplinary team involved in the enteral nutritional therapy process and the unit's documentary sample. For the data collection, we used a semi-structured script, participant observation and documentary analysis. RESULTS: There were eight nonconformities related to enteral diet therapy. During the participant observation, there was a lack of a management model that seeks the continuous improvement of the process, as well as resistance to change. CONCLUSION: Although enteral diet therapy is important in the patient's evolution, there are adverse events that could be prevented and the Lean philosophy assists in the identification of process nonconformities.

Nutrición Enteral Domiciliaria (NED) en niños y adolescentes: recomendaciones de la Rama de Nutrición de la Sociedad Chilena de Pediatría / Home Enteral Nutrition (NED) in children and adolescents: recommendations of the Nutrition Branch of the Chilean Society of Pediatrics

Resumen: El uso de apoyo nutricional ambulatorio, enteral o parenteral, ha sido un paso necesario en la opti mización del soporte nutricional en pacientes, que, por diversas patologías, no logran cumplir con sus requerimientos por vía oral (VO). En el presente artículo se presentan las recomendaciones de la Rama de Nutrición, dirigidas a los equipos de salud que atienden pacientes pediátricos, que requieran alimentación enteral por un tiempo prolongado. Su objetivo general es entregar pautas para un co rrecto manejo en estos pacientes. Se describe la conformación ideal del equipo de salud para atención y seguimiento de dichos pacientes, los criterios de ingreso al programa y su forma de evaluación en el tiempo. Además, se describen características generales de la alimentación enteral, vías de admi nistración, fórmulas enterales disponibles, complicaciones de este soporte nutricional y por último monitorización y seguimiento del paciente.

Abstract The use of home enteral or parenteral nutrition has been a necessary step in the optimization of nu tritional support in patients who, due to several diseases, fail to meet their nutritional requirements by oral feeding. This article presents the recommendations of the Chilean Pediatric Society Nutritio nal Branch, aimed at health teams that treat pediatric patients who require enteral feeding for a long time. The general objective is to provide guidelines for the proper management of these patients. It describes the ideal conformation of the health team for the care and follow-up of those patients, the program admission criteria, and its evaluation method over time. In addition, it describes general characteristics of enteral feeding, routes of administration, available enteral formulas, complications, and patient follow-up.

Status and nutritional therapy in elective and emergency neurosurgery patients.

OBJEVECT: To evaluate the Nutritional Status (NS) and follow the Enteral Nutritional Therapy (ENT) of patients in neurosurgical intervention. METHOD: Cohort study in emergency or elective surgery patients with exclusive ENT. Anthropometric measurements (Arm Circumference (AC and Triceps Skinfold (TSF)) were measured on the first, seventh and 14th day. For the ENT monitoring, caloric/protein adequacy, fasting, inadvertent output of the enteral probe and residual gastric volume were used. RESULTS: 80 patients, 78.7% in emergency surgery and 21.3% in elective surgery. There was a reduction in AC and Body Mass Index (BMI) (p>0.01), especially for the emergency group. The caloric/protein adequacy was higher in the emergency group (86.7% and 81.8%). CONCLUSION: The EN change was greater in the emergency group, even with better ENT adequacy. Changes in body composition are frequent in neurosurgical patients, regardless of the type of procedure.

Enteral diet therapy: use of the Lean Healthcare philosophy in process improvement / Dietoterapia enteral: la utilización de la filosofía Lean Healthcare en la mejora del proceso / Dietoterapia enteral: utilização da filosofia Lean Healthcare na melhoria do processo

ABSTRACT Objective: To identify the nonconformities of the enteral diet therapy process. Method: Exploratory case study, using as a theoretical framework the philosophy of Lean Healthcare in an inpatient unit of a large hospital in Minas Gerais State. The sample consisted of 19 professionals from the multidisciplinary team involved in the enteral nutritional therapy process and the unit's documentary sample. For the data collection, we used a semi-structured script, participant observation and documentary analysis. Results: There were eight nonconformities related to enteral diet therapy. During the participant observation, there was a lack of a management model that seeks the continuous improvement of the process, as well as resistance to change. Conclusion: Although enteral diet therapy is important in the patient's evolution, there are adverse events that could be prevented and the Lean philosophy assists in the identification of process nonconformities.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Identificar las no conformidades del proceso de dietoterapia enteral. Método: Estudio de caso exploratorio, utilizando como referencial teórico la filosofía Lean Healthcare en una unidad de internación de un hospital de gran porte del estado de Minas Gerais. La muestra fue compuesta por 19 profesionales del equipo multidisciplinario involucrado en el proceso de terapia nutricional enteral y la muestra documental de la unidad. Para la recolección de datos, se utilizó un itinerario semiestructurado, la observación participante y el análisis documental. Resultados: Se constataron ocho no conformidades relacionadas a la dietoterapia enteral. Durante la observación participante, se evidenció la falta de un modelo de gestión que busca la mejora continua del proceso, así como la resistencia al cambio. Conclusión: Aunque la dietoterapia enteral sea importante en la evolución del paciente, existen eventos adversos que podrían prevenirse y la filosofía Lean ayuda a identificar las no conformidades de los procesos.

RESUMO Objetivo: Identificar as não conformidades do processo de dietoterapia enteral. Método: Estudo de caso exploratório, utilizando como referencial teórico a filosofia Lean Healthcare em uma unidade de internação de um hospital de grande porte de Minas Gerais. A amostra foi composta por 19 profissionais da equipe multidisciplinar envolvida no processo de terapia nutricional enteral e a amostra documental da unidade. Para a coleta de dados, utilizou-se roteiro semiestruturado, observação participante e análise documental. Resultados: Constataram-se oito não conformidades relacionadas à dietoterapia enteral. Durante a observação participante, evidenciou-se a falta de um modelo de gestão que busca a melhoria contínua do processo, bem como resistência à mudança. Conclusão: Embora a dietoterapia enteral seja importante na evolução do paciente, existem eventos adversos que poderiam ser prevenidos e a filosofia Lean auxilia na identificação das não conformidades dos processos.

Status and nutritional therapy in elective and emergency neurosurgery patients / Estado y terapia nutricional en pacientes de neurocirugía electiva y urgencia / Estado e terapia nutricional em pacientes de neurocirurgia eletiva e urgência

ABSTRACT Objevect: To evaluate the Nutritional Status (NS) and follow the Enteral Nutritional Therapy (ENT) of patients in neurosurgical intervention. Method: Cohort study in emergency or elective surgery patients with exclusive ENT. Anthropometric measurements (Arm Circumference (AC and Triceps Skinfold (TSF)) were measured on the first, seventh and 14th day. For the ENT monitoring, caloric/protein adequacy, fasting, inadvertent output of the enteral probe and residual gastric volume were used. Results: 80 patients, 78.7% in emergency surgery and 21.3% in elective surgery. There was a reduction in AC and Body Mass Index (BMI) (p>0.01), especially for the emergency group. The caloric/protein adequacy was higher in the emergency group (86.7% and 81.8%). Conclusion: The EN change was greater in the emergency group, even with better ENT adequacy. Changes in body composition are frequent in neurosurgical patients, regardless of the type of procedure.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Evaluar el Estado Nutricional (EN) y acompañar la Terapia Nutricional Enteral (TNE) de pacientes en intervención neuroquirúrgica. Método: Estudio tipo cohorte en pacientes de cirugía de urgencia o electiva, con TNE exclusiva. Se midieron medidas antropométricas (Circunferencia del Brazo (CB) y Pliegue Cutáneo Tricipital (PCT)) en el primer, séptimo y decimocuarto días. Para el monitoreo de la TNE: adecuación calórica/proteica, desayuno, salida inadvertida de la sonda enteral y volumen residual gástrico. Resultados: 80 pacientes, 78,7% en cirugía de urgencia y 21,3% en electiva. Hubo reducción de la CB y del Índice Masa Corporal (IMC) (p> 0,01), en especial para el grupo de urgencia. La adecuación calórica/proteica fue superior en el grupo de urgencia (86,7% y 81,8%). Conclusión: La alteración del EN fue más alta en el grupo de urgencia mismo con mejor adecuación de la TNE. La alteración de la composición corporal es frecuente en pacientes neuroquirúrgicos independientemente del tipo de procedimiento.

RESUMO Objetivo: Avaliar o Estado Nutricional (EN) e acompanhar a Terapia Nutricional Enteral (TNE) de pacientes em intervenção neurocirúrgica. Método: Estudo tipo coorte em pacientes de cirurgia de urgência ou eletiva, com TNE exclusiva. Foram aferidas medidas antropométricas (Circunferência do Braço (CB) e Dobra Cutânea Tricipital (DCT)) no primeiro, sétimo e 14º dia. Para o monitoramento da TNE, utilizou-se: adequação calórico/proteica, jejum, saída inadvertida da sonda enteral e volume residual gástrico. Resultados: 80 pacientes, 78,7% em cirurgia de urgência e 21,3% em eletiva. Houve redução da CB e do Índice de Massa Corporal (IMC) (p>0,01), em especial para o grupo de urgência. A adequação calórica/proteica foi superior no grupo de urgência (86,7% e 81,8%). Conclusão: A alteração do EN foi maior no grupo de urgência mesmo com melhor adequação da TNE. A alteração da composição corporal é frequente em pacientes neurocirúrgicos, independentemente do tipo de procedimento.

Nutrition support team activities can improve enteral nutrition administration in intensive care units.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the nutritional support team (NST) activities on the quality of enteral nutrition administration in intensive care units. METHODS: An observational, analytical, and cross-sectional study was performed in nine hospitals in the Brazilian Federal District through the administration of two questionnaires. One questionnaire focused on the activities of the NST and the other on the quality of enteral nutrition administration in intensive care units. RESULTS: There was a strong correlation between the scores of the two questionnaires, which was confirmed by a linear regression model (R2 = 0.623; P = 0.007). The results suggest that high scores in the NST activities questionnaire predict a better performance in enteral nutrition administration. The sections of the NST activity questionnaire that most strongly affected enteral nutrition administration were the protocols (r = 0.895; P < 0.01), quality control (r = 0.779; P < 0.05), and continuing education (r = 0.753; P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The NST has the potential to positively influence enteral nutrition management in intensive care units and investments could be directed to the areas of continuing education, protocols, and quality control to maximize the effect of NST in intensive care units.

Postoperative Enteral Nutrition Guidelines Reduce the Risk of Intestinal Failure-Associated Liver Disease in Surgical Infants.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the effectiveness of postoperative feeding guidelines in reducing the incidence and severity of intestinal failure-associated liver disease (IFALD) among infants. STUDY DESIGN: Two cohorts of infants <6 months old undergoing intestinal surgery were compared: preguideline (retrospective data from 2007 to 2013; n = 83) and postguideline (prospective data from 2013 to 2016; n = 81). The guidelines included greater initial enteral nutrition volumes of 20 mL/kg/d and daily feeding advancement if tolerated. The primary outcomes were incidence of IFALD (peak direct bilirubin [DB] >2 mg/dL) and severity (DB >5 mg/dL for moderate-severe). Multiple logistic regression was used to determine the odds of developing IFALD. Other outcomes were time to reach 50% and 100% goal calories from enteral nutrition and the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis after feeding. RESULTS: The incidence of IFALD decreased from 71% to 51% (P = .031), and median peak DB decreased from 5.7 to 2.4 mg/dL (P = .001). After adjusting for diagnosis and prematurity, the odds of developing IFALD of any severity were reduced by 60% (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.20-0.85), and the odds of developing moderate-to-severe IFALD were reduced by 72% (OR 0.28, 95% CI 0.13-0.58) with guideline use. Time to reach 50% enteral nutrition decreased from a median of 10 to 6 days (P = .020) and time to reach 100% enteral nutrition decreased from 35 to 21 days (P = .035) with guideline use. The incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis after initiating enteral nutrition did not change (5% vs 9%, P = .346). CONCLUSIONS: Implementation of feeding guidelines reduced time to reach feeding goals, significantly reducing IFALD incidence and severity.

Nutritional and microbiological quality of commercial and homemade blenderized whole food enteral diets for home-based enteral nutritional therapy in adults.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Serious nutritional and contamination risks may be involved in the preparation of blenderized tube-feeding diets and in the handling of commercial diets. Their nutritional and microbiological quality in home settings is unknown. The objective of this study was to assess the nutritional and microbiological quality of commercial enteral and homemade blenderized whole foods diets intended to adult patients in home nutritional therapy. METHODS: In a cross sectional study, 66 samples of commercial (CD) and noncommercial (NCD) enteral diets were collected at the homes of patients in home enteral nutritional therapy, 33 of each type. Commercial diets were either powder (PCD; n = 13) or liquid (LCD; n = 20). The samples were analyzed in laboratory to assess their nutritional and microbiological quality. Anthropometric data of mid upper arm circumference (MUAC) and triceps skinfold (TST) thickness were obtained from the patients' medical records. RESULTS: NCD presented significantly lower values for protein, fat, fiber, carbohydrate and energy while water content was significantly higher. PCD and LCD did not show any statistically significant differences between them. In the NCD, the values measured for macronutrients and energy corresponded to less than 50% of the prescribed values (except for fat). In CD, protein value was about 20% more than the prescribed value; fat and energy values corresponded to approximately 100% of the prescription, while carbohydrate corresponded to 92%. Regardless the type of the diet, prevalence of undernutrition was high in both groups though patients of the NCD presented a higher percentage. Samples of NCD complied significantly less with the microbiological standards; only 6.0% complied with the standard for coliform bacteria. Escherichia coli was detected in 10, 2, and 2 samples of NCD, PCD and LCD, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Homemade blenderized enteral diets showed low values of energy and macronutrients, delivered less than 50% of the prescribed values and had high levels of bacterial contamination.

Current clinical nutrition practices in critically ill patients in Latin America: a multinational observational study.

BACKGROUND: Malnutrition in critically ill adults in the intensive care unit (ICU) is associated with a significantly elevated risk of mortality. Adequate nutrition therapy is crucial to optimise outcomes. Currently, there is a paucity of such data in Latin America. Our aims were to characterise current clinical nutrition practices in the ICU setting in Latin America and evaluate whether current practices meet caloric and protein requirements in critically ill patients receiving nutrition therapy. METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional, retrospective, observational study in eight Latin American countries (Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama, and Peru). Eligible patients were critically ill adults hospitalised in the ICU and receiving enteral nutrition (EN) and/or parenteral nutrition (PN) on the Screening Day and the previous day (day -1). Caloric and protein balance on day -1, nutritional status, and prescribed nutrition therapy were recorded. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of reaching daily caloric and protein targets. RESULTS: The analysis included 1053 patients from 116 hospitals. Evaluation of nutritional status showed that 74.1% of patients had suspected/moderate or severe malnutrition according to the Subjective Global Assessment. Prescribed nutrition therapy included EN alone (79.9%), PN alone (9.4%), and EN + PN (10.7%). Caloric intake met >90% of the daily target in 59.7% of patients on day -1; a caloric deficit was present in 40.3%, with a mean (±SD) daily caloric deficit of -688.8 ± 455.2 kcal. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that combined administration of EN + PN was associated with a statistically significant increase in the probability of meeting >90% of daily caloric and protein targets compared with EN alone (odds ratio, 1.56; 95% confidence interval, 1.02-2.39; p = 0.038). CONCLUSIONS: In the ICU setting in Latin America, malnutrition was highly prevalent and caloric intake failed to meet targeted energy delivery in 40% of critically ill adults receiving nutrition therapy. Supplemental administration of PN was associated with improved energy and protein delivery; however, PN use was low. Collectively, these findings suggest an opportunity for more effective utilisation of supplemental PN in critically ill adults who fail to receive adequate nutrition from EN alone.

Qualidade da terapia nutricional enteral em unidades de terapia intensiva / Quality of enteral nutritional therapy in intensive care units

Introdução: O monitoramento da qualidade da terapia nutricional é de extrema importância para a identificação de não conformidades em relação às metas nutricionais e à real oferta enérgico-proteica, e, consequentemente, proporcionar melhorias na assistência ao paciente grave. Objetivo: Avaliar a adequação da nutrição enteral (NE) por meio da aplicação de indicadores de qualidade da terapia nutricional em Unidades de Terapia Intensiva. Método: Foi avaliada a adequação de calorias e proteínas calculadas, prescritas e ofertadas. Também foram aplicados indicadores de qualidade da terapia nutricional enteral propostos pelo International Life Sciences Institute Brasil. Resultados: Foram avaliados 53 pacientes, com idade média de 59,3±17,64 anos; 56,6% eram do sexo masculino. A adequação entre o prescrito e o calculado foi 72,15% para caloria e 57,58% para proteína, entre prescrito e infundido foi de 71,67% tanto para caloria e proteína, e a razão entre o calculado e infundido foi de 53,36% e 40,7% de caloria e proteína, respectivamente. Foram observadas não conformidades em relação às metas pré-estabelecidas nos seguintes indicadores de qualidade: dias com oferta calórica administrada maior ou menor que 20% da oferta prescrita em pacientes em NE (25%), dias com aporte proteico insuficiente no total de dias (49,37%) e pacientes em jejum por mais de 24 horas (52,83%). Conclusão: Foram encontradas inadequações na prescrição e oferta da NE, principalmente proteica. Assim como, frequência elevada de jejuns inadequados e alta mortalidade no grupo estudado.(AU)

Background: Monitoring the quality of nutrition therapy is extremely important to identify non-conformities in relation to nutritional goals and the real energetic-protein supply, and consequently provide improvements in care for critically ill patients. Objectives: To assess the adequacy of enteral nutrition through the application of nutritional therapy quality indicators in Intensive Care Units. Methods: It was evaluated the adequacy of calories and proteins calculated, prescribed and offered. Also enteral nutrition therapy quality indicators were applied. Results: Fifty-three patients were evaluated,with a mean age of 59.3±17.64 years; 56.6% were male. The suitability of prescribed and calculated was 72.15% to calories and 57.58% protein, between prescribed and infused was 71.67% for both calories and protein, and the ratio between the calculated and infused was 53.36% and 40.7% of calorie and protein, respectively. It was observed non-conformities in relation to pre-established goals in the following quality indicators: days with higher administered energy intake or less than 20% of the prescribed offering in patients enteral nutrition therapy (25%), days with insufficient protein intake in total days (49.37%) and patients fasted for more than 24 hours (52.83%). Conclusion: Inadequacies were found in the prescription and supply of enteral nutrition, especially protein. As well as high frequency of inadequate fasts and high mortality in this group.(AU)

Quality control of enteral nutrition therapy in cancer patients at nutritional risk.

INTRODUCTION: Quality indicators in nutritional therapy (QINTs) allow for the practical assessment of quality in the management of enteral nutrition therapy (ENT) among hospitalized patients. OBJECTIVE: To control ENT quality in cancer patients at nutritional risk. METHODS: A prospective, observational study was performed with cancer patients over 19 years of age who had undergone exclusive ENT for at least 72 h. Nutritional Risk Screening was used to assess nutritional risk; in the presence of nutritional risk, the Subjective Global Assessment (SGA) was used. Six QINTs were applied. RESULTS: Our study included 211 patients (mean age: 59 ± 10 years, 67.3% men). Most common cancer diagnoses were head and neck (68.2%) and gastrointestinal (18%). Nutritional risk was identified in 93.3% (n = 197) of patients; SGA identified malnutrition in 84.2% of patients (n = 166). ENT was used for 9.7 ± 7 days, presenting a daily deficit of -243.1 ± 141 ml of dietary volume, -363.3 ± 214.1 kcal, and -14.2 ± 8.41 g of protein. Three of the six QINTs were in accordance with the proposed goal: frequency of SGA application, calculations of nutritional needs, and frequency of diarrhea. Three of the six QINTs were in disagreement with the proposed goal: ENT infused volume exceeding 70% of prescribed volume, frequency of digestive fasting exceeding 24 h, and frequency of constipation. Prescriptions for anticholinergic drugs (p = 0.023) and diuretics (p = 0.007) were associated with diarrhea. CONCLUSION: Nutritional risk and malnutrition are frequent among ENT cancer patients. Quality control in ENT was moderately impaired by episodes of fasting and intestinal motility disorders.