Nutritional status as a predictor of duration of mechanical ventilation in critically ill children

Impact of nutritional status on the outcome of critically ill pediatric patients

BACKGROUND

Malnutrition among patients admitted to a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) is common. However, there is a lack of data on its impact on the critically ill.

AIM

To assess the impact of nutritional status on the outcome of critically ill children admitted to PICU.

METHODS

This observational study was conducted in a tertiary care teaching institute for one year, including 210 children aged 1 month to 14 years admitted to a 15-bed PICU for a minimum of 24 hours. Patients with less than 24 hours of PICU stay, who received palliative care, or with syndromic short stature were excluded. Relevant data were collected including anthropometric details, demographic data, duration of mechanical ventilation (MV), PICU, and hospital stay and outcome. Malnourished and well-nourished groups were compared using an independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance, and χ² test.

RESULTS

Among 210 patients, there were 129 males and 81 females. There were 57 (27.1%) children less than 6 months of age, 95 (45.2%) between 6 months and 5 years, and 58 (27.6%) more than 5 years of age. The prevalence of malnutrition in the study sample was 51.9% (n = 109). The overall mortality was 22.9% (48/210), 26.6% (29/109) among malnourished, and 18.8% (19/101) among well-nourished children (P = 0.241). A significant association was found between the severity of malnutrition and duration of MV (P = 0.001), PICU stay (P = 0.001), and hospital stay (P = 0.021).

CONCLUSION

Malnutrition is common in critically ill children and contributes to poor clinical outcomes such as duration of MV, PICU, and hospital stay. However, mortality was comparable in both groups.

Calf circumference may complement the nutritional assessment of children under 10 in the paediatric intensive care unit

BACKGROUND

Nutritional intervention during hospitalisation is vital in managing of children and adolescents in intensive care. In this context, body composition measurements, such as mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC), can help improve the accuracy of nutritional assessments. However, using MUAC has some limitations. Calf circumference (CC) is a straightforward, inexpensive, and easily obtainable measurement. However, no reference values currently exist for CC in paediatric patients.

AIMS

To describe the nutritional monitoring of critically ill children and adolescents in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) using CC.

METHODS

Patients aged 6 months to 18 years old who were admitted to the PICUs participated in the study. Two MUAC and CC measurements were performed: one in the first 48 h of admission to the PICU and another after 7 days. The percentage change between the two measurements was compared. Information was also evaluated about demographic and outcome data. Analyses were conducted with all patients included in the sample collectively and subdivided by age (<10 years and ≥10 years).

RESULTS

Two hundred and eleven patients underwent anthropometric assessment on admission, and the sample for comparative analyses consisted of 103 patients (after discharges and deaths). MUAC and CC significantly decreased in the first week of hospitalisation. A positive weak correlation was found between the percentage change in the MUAC and CC only for individuals under 10 years old and for the total sample, but not for adolescents. The all age group and children under 10 years old showed a greater reduction in CC than in MUAC. The same did not occur for adolescents.

CONCLUSIONS

Calf circumference may be a promising method for nutritional monitoring of critically ill children in Paediatric Intensive Care Units because it can indicate signs of depletion earlier than mid-upper arm circumference. These results are more meaningful for children than for adolescents.

Down syndrome and outcomes in critically ill pediatric patients

Introduction

Information regarding children with Down syndrome (DS) in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) is limited and conflicting. We aimed to investigate the association between DS and clinical outcomes in pediatric patients admitted to the PICU at the Instituto Nacional de Salud del Niño (National Institute for Child Health, INSN for the acronym in Spanish) and to assess nutritional status within the study cohort.

Methods

This study involved the secondary analysis of a database. We included patients consecutively admitted to INSN, a tertiary care children's hospital in Lima, Peru. We collected demographic data, clinical characteristics, and nutritional status using standardized tables. The outcomes assessed included mortality, length of stay, duration of mechanical ventilation (DMV), ventilator-free days (VFD), and healthcare-associated infections (HAI). We applied Cox regression and Poisson regression analyses to explore the relationship between Down syndrome and clinical outcomes, providing both crude and adjusted results.

Results

A total of 525 children (average age 71.3 months, range 1-218 months) were analyzed. Children with DS were younger and had a higher prevalence of comorbidities, congenital heart disease, and underweight. Both crude bivariate and multivariate analyses demonstrated that children with DS had higher mortality rates, increased frequency of HAIs, longer DMV, longer PICU stay, and fewer VFD. Adjusted multivariate analysis revealed that children with DS had a significantly higher risk of developing HAIs (RR 2.95; 95% CI 1.10, 7.87) and longer DMV (RR 1.43; 95% CI 1.24, 1.65). Among the 525 children, underweight was associated with increased risk of mechanical ventilation (MV) use and longer DMV.

Discussion

Critically ill children with DS are at increased risk of developing HAIs and longer DMV. In all 525 children, underweight is associated with higher risk of MV use and longer duration of MV.

The Predictive and Prognostic Value of Percentage Change in Calf Circumference in Infants and Children During the First Week of Admission in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: A Prospective Cohort Study

Calf circumference (CC) is an easy measure of muscle loss; yet, there are limited studies in children. We aimed to assess the viability of the first-week percent change in CC as a prognostic nutritional marker. Two MUAC (mid-upper arm circumference), CC, and weight measurements were carried out: one on the first day of admission and another on the seventh day. The differences and correlations between their percent changes were examined. The possible association between CC percent change and prolonged length of hospital stay (PLOS) and in-hospital mortality was assessed. Seventy participants were enrolled with a median age of 19.5 months. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) of CC percent change was 0.54 (5.5) with significant correlations between it and each of MUAC and weight percent change (ρ = 0.928, P = .001), (ρ = 0.902, P = .001), respectively. Calf circumference percent changes were significantly more negative in children with PLOS; (P = .004). These changes seem to be viable measures of nutritional status.

Height status matters for risk of mortality in critically ill children

BACKGROUND

Anthropometric measurements are crucial in pediatric critical care, but the impact of height on ICU outcomes is underexplored despite a substantial number of short-for-age children in ICUs. Previous studies suggest that short stature increases the risk of poor clinical outcomes. This study examines the relationship between short stature and ICU outcomes.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using a Japanese nationwide database (the Japanese Intensive Care Patient Database; JIPAD), which included pediatric patients under 16 years admitted to ICUs from April 2015 to March 2020. Height standard deviation scores (SD scores) were calculated based on age and sex. Short-stature patients were defined as height SD score <  - 2. The primary outcome was all-cause ICU mortality, and the secondary outcome was the length of stay in ICU.

RESULTS

Out of 6,377 pediatric patients, 27.2% were classified as having short stature. The ICU mortality rate was significantly higher in the short-stature group compared to the normal-height group (3.6% vs. 1.4%, p < 0.01). Multivariable logistic regression showed that short stature was independently associated with increased ICU mortality (OR = 2.73, 95% CI 1.81-4.11). Additionally, the Fine-Gray subdistribution hazards model indicated that short stature was associated with a lower chance of ICU discharge for each additional day (HR 0.85, 95% CI 0.81-0.90, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

Short stature is a significant risk factor for increased ICU mortality and prolonged ICU stay in critically ill children. Height should be considered in risk assessments and management strategies in pediatric intensive care to improve outcomes.

Personalized Nutrition in the Pediatric ICU: Steering the Shift from Acute Stress to Metabolic Recovery and Rehabilitation

BACKGROUND

Nutrition significantly impacts the outcomes of critically ill children in intensive care units (ICUs). Due to the evolving metabolic, neuroendocrine, and immunological disorders associated with severe illness or trauma, there are dynamically changing phases of energy needs requiring tailored macronutrient intake.

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to assess the changing dietary needs from the acute phase through recovery, provide recommendations for implementing evidence-based strategies to ensure adequate energy and nutrient provision in pediatric ICUs, and optimize patient outcomes.

METHODS

A comprehensive search of the MEDLINE-PubMed database was conducted, focusing on randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, and systematic reviews related to the nutrition of critically ill children. The study highlights recent guidelines using the GRADE approach, supplemented by relevant adult studies, current clinical practices, challenges, gaps in knowledge, and future directions for research aimed at improving nutritional interventions.

RESULTS

Early personalized, incremental enteral feeding helps mitigate the negative energy balance during the acute phase, aids organ function restoration in the stabilization phase, and supports growth during the recovery phase and beyond. Conversely, early full nutritional support, high protein doses, or isolated micronutrient administration have not demonstrated benefits due to anabolic resistance in these patients. Moreover, early parenteral nutrition during the acute phase may suppress autophagy and lead to worse outcomes. Accurate assessment of nutritional status and monitoring of daily energy and protein needs are crucial.

CONCLUSIONS

Strong evidence supports the establishment of a dedicated nutritional team and the implementation of individualized nutritional protocols in the ICU to reduce morbidity and mortality in critically ill children.

Definition, risk factors, and outcome analysis of prolonged mechanical ventilation in children

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to explore the time threshold for defining prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) in children, along with its risk factors and outcomes.

METHODS

A prospective cohort study was conducted on children aged 29 days-18 years, who were consecutively admitted to two Pediatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs) at Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, from October 2020 to June 2021. The study included patients receiving mechanical ventilation (MV) for more than 2 days (each day >6 h). Participants were divided into five groups based on the duration of MV (2-7 days, 8-14 days, 15-21 days, 21-30 days, >30 days) to compare rates of extubation failure, all-cause mortality one month post-discharge, incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia, tracheotomy rates, total hospital stay, PICU stay, and overall hospital costs. The most clinically and statistically significant outcome variables were selected. The Youden index was used to determine the MV duration with the most significant impact on overall outcomes, defining this as PMV. Baseline characteristics, treatment information, and outcomes were compared between PMV and non-PMV groups. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify risk factors for PMV occurrence.

RESULTS

A total of 382 subjects were included in the study. The distribution of children across the five MV duration groups was 44.2%, 27.7%, 10.7%, 8.9%, and 8.4% respectively. The rates of at least one extubation failure in each group were 5.9%, 10.4%, 41.5%, 41.2%, and 46.9% (p < .05). Statistically significant differences were observed among groups in terms of tracheotomy rates, all-cause mortality at 1 month postdischarge, median total hospital stay, median PICU stay, and hospital costs (p < .05). Defining PMV, the most appropriate time point calculated was 12.5 days, based on at least one extubation failure and/or death within 1 month postdischarge. Higher PIM-3 scores, weight for age <-2SD, admission for respiratory distress/insufficient ventilation and/or hemodynamic instability/shock/arrhythmia, noninvasive ventilation on the first day, and undergoing blood transfusion treatment were identified as risk factors for PMV (p < .05).

CONCLUSION

In children, MV for ≥13 days significantly increases mortality rates, extubation failure and tracheotomy rates, duration of PICU and total hospital stay and costs. We suggest defining PMV as MV ≥13 days, particularly for children undergoing MV for respiratory illnesses. This definition can assist clinicians in developing appropriate treatment strategies by focusing on risk factors and providing reliable prognostic consultation to patients' families.

Nutritional status and clinical outcomes of brain tumor surgery in pediatric intensive care unit: A prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

To determine whether nutritional status affects mortality and length of stay in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) after brain tumor surgery.

METHODS

Subjects aged 2 months to 13 years with brain tumor surgery were included in the study. Z-scores of BMI for age, weight for age, and weight for length were calculated at admission. Undernutrition was defined as Z-score < -2. Nutritional intake was measured daily by a clinical nutritionist. Outcomes to be measured included duration of hospitalization and mortality. Regression analyses was used to investigate the relationship between nutritional variables and outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 63 patients met the inclusion criteria. Undernutrition at admission was found in 33% of subjects based on Z-scores of BMI and weight for length. The mortality rate was 17.5%. Calorie and protein intake was <50% of the target in 50.7% and 42.8 % of children, respectively. Undernutrition by weight for age Z-score, BMI for age and weight for length Z-scores, and low protein intake increased mortality risk by 5, 5.9 and 4.7 times, respectively. The risk of shorter PICU-free days was independently 80% and 90% lower in those receiving <50% of protein and calorie requirements.

CONCLUSION

Undernutrition at admission is prevalent in children undergoing brain tumor surgery and is associated with a higher risk of mortality. Caloric and protein intake during hospitalization is generally low, leading to longer PICU stay.

Nutrition provision in Australian and New Zealand PICUs: A prospective observational cohort study (ePICUre)

OBJECTIVES

The main aim of this study was to describe nutrition provision in Australian and New Zealand (ANZ) pediatric intensive care units (PICUs), including mode of nutrition and adequacy of enteral nutrition (EN) to PICU day 28. Secondary aims were to determine the proportion of children undergoing dietetics assessment, the average time to this intervention, and the methods for estimation of energy and protein requirements.

METHODS

This observational study was conducted in all ANZ tertiary-affiliated specialist PICUs. All children ≤18 y of age admitted to the PICU over a 2-wk period and remaining for ≥48 h were included. Data were collected on days 1 to 7, 14, 21, and 28 (unless discharged prior). Data points included oral intake, EN and parenteral nutrition support, estimated energy and protein adequacy, and dietetics assessment details.

RESULTS

We enrolled 141 children, of which 79 were boys (56%) and 84 were <2 y of age (60%). Thirty children (73%) received solely EN on day 7 with documented energy and protein targets for 22 (73%). Of these children, 14 (64%) received <75% of their estimated requirements. A dietetics assessment was provided to 80 children (57%), and was significantly higher in those remaining in the PICU beyond the median length of stay (41% in patients staying ≤4.6 d versus 72% in those staying >4.6 d; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

This prospective study of nutrition provision across ANZ PICUs identified important areas for improvement, particularly in EN adequacy and nutrition assessment. Further research to optimize nutrition provision in this setting is urgently needed.

Reporting of social determinants of health in randomized controlled trials conducted in the pediatric intensive care unit

Introduction

The influence of social determinants of health (SDOH) on access to care and outcomes for critically ill children remains an understudied area with a paucity of high-quality data. Recent publications have highlighted the importance of incorporating SDOH considerations into research but the frequency with which this occurs in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) research is unclear. Our objective was to determine the frequency and categories of SDOH variables reported and how these variables were defined in published PICU randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Methods

We searched Medline, Embase, Lilacs, and Central from inception to Dec 2022. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials of any intervention on children or their families in a PICU. Data related to study demographics and nine WHO SDOH categories were extracted, and descriptive statistics and qualitative data generated.

Results

586 unique RCTs were included. Studies had a median sample size of 60 patients (IQR 40-106) with 73.0% of studies including ≤100 patients and 41.1% including ≤50 patients. A total of 181 (181/586, 30.9%) studies reported ≥1 SDOH variable of which 163 (163/586, 27.8%) reported them by randomization group. The most frequently reported categories were food insecurity (100/586, 17.1%) and social inclusion and non-discrimination (73/586, 12.5%). Twenty-five of 57 studies (43.9%) investigating feeding or nutrition and 11 of 82 (13.4%) assessing mechanical ventilation reported baseline nutritional assessments. Forty-one studies investigated interventions in children with asthma or bronchiolitis of which six reported on smoking in the home (6/41, 14.6%).

Discussion

Reporting of relevant SDOH variables occurs infrequently in PICU RCTs. In addition, when available, categorizations and definitions of SDOH vary considerably between studies. Standardization of SDOH variable collection along with consistent minimal reporting requirements for PICU RCT publications is needed.

Early weight measures and long-term neuropsychological outcome of critically ill neonates and infants: a secondary analysis of the PEPaNIC trial

Neonates and infants surviving critical illness show impaired growth during critical illness and are at risk for later neuropsychological impairments. Early identification of individuals most at risk is needed to provide tailored long-term follow-up and care. The research question is whether early growth during hospitalization is associated with growth and neuropsychological outcomes in neonates and infants after pediatric intensive care unit admission (PICU). This is a secondary analysis of the PEPaNIC trial. Weight measurements upon PICU admission, at PICU discharge, at hospital discharge, at 2- and 4-year follow-up, and of different subgroups were compared using (paired) t-tests. Multiple linear regression analyses were performed to investigate the association between early growth in weight measures and neuropsychological outcomes at 4-year follow-up. One hundred twenty-one infants were included, and median age upon admission was 21 days. Growth in weight per week was less than the age-appropriate norm, resulting in a decrease in weight-for-age Z-score during hospitalization. Weight is normalized at 2- and 4-year follow-up. Weight gain in kilograms per week and change in weight Z-score were not associated with neurodevelopmental outcome measures at 4-year follow-up. Lower weight-for-age Z-score at PICU admission and at hospital discharge was associated only with lower weight and height Z-scores at 4-year follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Growth in weight during hospital stay of young survivors of critical illness is impaired. Worse early growth in weight is associated with lower weight and height but not with neuropsychological outcomes at 4-year follow-up.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Critically ill neonates and infants show impaired early growth during admission and are at risk for later neuropsychological impairments. • Unraveling the association between early growth and later neuropsychological impairments is crucial since the first year of life is critical for brain development.

WHAT IS NEW

• Critically ill neonates and infants had age appropriate weight measures at 4-year follow-up. • Poor growth in weight during hospital stay was not associated with poorer cognitive, emotional, or behavioral functioning four years after critical illness.

Risk Factors Associated With Prolonged Mechanical Ventilation and Length of Stay After Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot

BACKGROUND

This study examined preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative data to identify factors that are associated with prolonged mechanical ventilation (PMV) and prolonged intensive care unit length of stay (ICU LOS) in tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) patients undergoing repair surgery.

METHODS

A retrospective study was carried out after approval from the institutional review board. All patients (age 0-52 years) who underwent TOF repair from January 2016 to September 2022 were included. Prolonged mechanical ventilation was defined as >24 h of ventilation, while prolonged ICU LOS was defined as ICU stay >3 days.

RESULTS

A total of 922 patients were included, among whom 288 (31.2%) were intubated for >24 h and 222 (24.1%) stayed in ICU for >3 days. Younger age (odds ratio [OR] = 2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.2-3.3, P = .007), lower weight (OR = 2.1, 95% CI 1.2-3.5, P = .003), and residual lesion (OR = 3.27, 95% CI 1.2-8.7, P = .017) were associated with PMV. Moreover, independent risk factors for prolonged ICU LOS are similar to PMV risk factors, including younger age (OR = 2.3, 95% CI 1.28-4.12, P = .005), lower weight (OR = 2.83, 95% CI 1.58-5, P < .001), underweight status (OR = 1.7, 95% CI 1.12-2.57, P = .012), and residual lesion (OR = 3.79, 95% CI 1.43-10.05, P = .007). Both aortic cross-clamp and cardiopulmonary bypass times did not exhibit clinically significant risk factors toward PMV and prolonged ICU LOS.

CONCLUSIONS

The risk factors for PMV and prolonged ICU LOS were residual lesion, younger age, and lower weight. Nutritional status contributed to the risk of prolonged ICU LOS, but not PMV. Consideration of these factors may provide optimal care to improve the outcome following TOF corrective surgery.

Body composition in pediatric patients

Undernutrition is highly prevalent in children who are critically ill and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality, including a higher risk of infection due to transitory immunological disorders, inadequate wound healing, reduced gut function, longer dependency on mechanical ventilation, and longer hospital stays compared with eutrophic children who are critically ill. Nutrition care studies have proposed that early interventions targeting nutrition assessment can prevent or minimize the complications of undernutrition. Stress promotes an acute inflammatory response mediated by cytokines, resulting in increased basal metabolism and nitrogen excretion and leading to muscle loss and changes in body composition. Therefore, the inclusion of body composition assessment is important in the evaluation of these patients because, in addition to the nutrition aspect, body composition seems to predict clinical prognosis. Several techniques can be used to assess body composition, such as arm measurements, calf circumference, grip strength, bioelectrical impedance analysis, and imaging examinations, including computed tomography and dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. This review of available evidence suggests that arm measurements seem to be well-established in assessing body composition in children who are critically ill, and that bioelectrical impedance analysis with phase angle, handgrip strength, calf circumference and ultrasound seem to be promising in this evaluation. However, further robust studies based on scientific evidence are necessary.

Nutrition association with skin integrity and pressure injury in critically ill pediatric patients

BACKGROUND

Current research highlights the positive impact of nutrition therapy, particularly enteral nutrition, in critical illness. However, little attention is given to the impact of nutrition on skin integrity during critical illness. Skin integrity is at risk in critically ill children owing to necessary clinical therapies and challenges of providing nutrition therapy.

METHODS

We conducted a narrative literature review with three main thematic concepts to drive our literature search: the association of nutrition therapy with (1) skin integrity; (2) injury, wounds, and wound healing; and (3) differences of skin color. Using pertinent search and subject terms, PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, and SCOPUS databases were searched, yielding 316 articles. After removal of duplicates, articles were reviewed based on inclusion and exclusion criteria defined by the authors; only eight articles met the defined criteria to inform this review.

RESULTS

Large and important gaps exist in the current literature regarding an association between nutrition therapy, skin injury, and wound healing. Little to no attention was found for associations with skin color. The resulting narrative review addresses these topics and subtopics with additional references included that are independent of the original search strategy.

CONCLUSIONS

A dearth of evidence exists describing associations between nutrition and disruption of skin integrity in pediatric critical illness. Children with dark skin are at increased risk, as manifestation and identification of disruption to skin integrity may not be recognized. Research is needed to describe these associations and the impact of nutrition on skin integrity, including differences of skin color.

Timing of parenteral nutrition initiation in critically ill children: a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

The optimal timing of parenteral nutrition (PN) initiation in critically ill children remains controversial.

PURPOSE

To identify the optimal timing of PN initiation in critically ill children.

METHODS

This randomized clinical trial was conducted in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of Menoufia University Hospital. A total of 140 patients were randomized to receive early or late PN. The early PN group consisted of 71 well-nourished and malnourished patients who received PN on the first day of PICU admission. Malnourished (42%) and well-nourished children randomized to the late PN group (42%) started PN on the fourth versus seventh day after admission, respectively. Mechanical ventilation (MV) was the primary outcome, while PICU length of stay and mortality were secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

Patients who received early PN started enteral feeding significantly earlier (median, 6 days; interquartile range, 2-20 days) than those not provided early PN (median, 12 days; interquartile range, 3-30 days; P<0.001) and had a significantly lower risk of feeding intolerance (5.6% vs.18.8%, P=0.035). The median time required to obtain full calories enterally was shorter in the early versus late PN group (P=0.004). Furthermore, patients in the early versus late PN group had a significantly shorter median PICU stay (P<0.001) and were less likely to require MV (P=0.018).

CONCLUSION

Patients who received early PN had a lower MV need and duration than those who received later PN and had more favorable clinical outcomes in terms of morbidity.

Undernutrition and 60-day mortality in critically ill children with respiratory failure: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

To determine whether undernutrition affects 60-day mortality in pediatric acute respiratory failure.

METHODS

Subjects with acute respiratory failure aged between two months and 13 years were included in the study. The Z-scores were calculated on admission and children were categorized into two groups of undernutrition and normal nutrition. The nutritional intake of the children was measured daily. The outcome was 60-day mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 126 patients met the inclusion criteria; 41% were undernourished based on the Z-score of BMI and weight for height, 50% based on the Z-score of height and length for age and 45% based on the Z-score of weight for age. Overall, the 60-day mortality rate was 27.8%. The Cox regression analysis adjusted with PIM2, age and gender, showed that undernutrition has a significant relationship with 60-day mortality based on the weight for age Z-score (HR = 2.33; CI: 1.175-4.638). In addition, undernutrition has a significant relationship with 60-day mortality based on the BMI for age (HR = 3.04; CI:1.070-8.639) and weight for height (HR = 2.62; CI: 1.605-6.658) Z-scores. The mean calorie and protein intake of 72% of the children was less than 80% of their calorie needs. The time to start feeding in 63% of the children was more than 48 h. There was no relationship between the time of starting nutrition and nutritional intake during PICU admission and mortality.

CONCLUSION

Undernutrition is prevalent in mechanically ventilated children in the PICU and may be associated with 60-day mortality.

An anthropometric evidence against the use of age-based estimation of bodyweight in pediatric patients admitted to intensive care units

Age-based bodyweight estimation is commonly used in pediatric settings, but pediatric ICU patients often have preexisting comorbidity and resulting failure to thrive, hence their anthropometric measures may be small-for-age. Accordingly, age-based methods could overestimate bodyweight in such settings, resulting in iatrogenic complications. We performed a retrospective cohort study using pediatric data (aged < 16 years) registered in the Japanese Intensive Care Patient Database from April 2015 to March 2020. All the anthropometric data were overlaid on the growth charts. The estimation accuracy of 4 age-based and 2 height-based bodyweight estimations was evaluated by the Bland-Altman plot analysis and the proportion of estimates within 10% of the measured weight (ρ10%). We analyzed 6616 records. The distributions of both bodyweight and height were drifted to the lower values throughout the childhood while the distribution of BMI was similar to the general healthy children. The accuracy in bodyweight estimation with age-based formulae was inferior to that with height-based methods. These data demonstrated that the pediatric patients in the Japanese ICU were proportionally small-for-age, suggesting a special risk of using the conventional age-based estimation but supporting the use of height-based estimation of the bodyweight in the pediatric ICU.

Effect of high-energy and/or high-protein feeding in children with congenital heart disease after cardiac surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis

High-energy or high-protein feeding offers a promising approach to improving malnutrition in children after congenital heart surgery. However, the effect of high-energy or high-protein feeding in this population has not yet been systematically reviewed. Therefore, we aimed to assess the safety and effectiveness of high-energy or high-protein feeding in children after congenital heart surgery. Five electronic databases (PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL, and Scopus) were searched from inception to April 23, 2022. After screening the literature according to inclusion and exclusion criteria, a risk of bias assessment was performed using version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials, and the certainty of the evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations system. Finally, the random effects model was used to perform a meta-analysis of all data. A total of 609 subjects from 9 studies were included for qualitative analysis, and meta-analyses were performed on data from 8 of these studies. The results showed that high-energy and/or high-protein feeding did not increase feeding intolerance (RR = 1.09, 95% CI: 0.80, 1.48) or fluid intake (MD =  - 12.50 ml/kg/d, 95% CI: - 36.10, 11.10); however, the intervention was beneficial in increasing weight (MD = 0.5 kg, 95% CI: 0.23, 0.77) and reducing the duration of mechanical ventilation (MD =  - 17.45 h, 95% CI: - 27.30, - 7.60), intensive care unit (ICU) stay (MD =  - 1.45 days, 95% CI: - 2.36, - 0.54) and hospital stay (MD =  - 2.82 days, 95% CI: - 5.22, - 0.43). However, high-energy and/or protein feeding did not reduce the infection rate (RR = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.25, 1.87) or mortality (RR = 1.50, 95% CI: 0.47, 4.82).

CONCLUSION

The certainty of the evidence was graded as moderate to high, which suggests that high-energy and/or high-protein feeding may be safe in children after congenital heart surgery. Furthermore, this intervention improves nutrition and reduces the duration of mechanical ventilation, length of ICU stay, and length of hospital stay. However, the overall conclusion of this meta-analysis will need to be confirmed in a cohort of patients with different cardiac physiologies.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• Malnutrition is highly prevalent in children with congenital heart disease (CHD) and can negatively affect the prognosis of these children. • High-energy and/or high-protein feeding can improve nutrition status and facilitate recovery; however, evidence on its safety and efficacy is lacking.

WHAT IS NEW

• Pooled data suggest that high-energy and/or high-protein feeding does not increase fluid intake or feeding intolerance in children with CHD. • High-energy and/or high-protein feeding may reduce the duration of mechanical ventilation, length of intensive care unit stay, and length of hospital stay.

Association of nutritional status with clinical outcomes of critically ill pediatric patients with complex chronic conditions

BACKGROUND & AIMS

There is a high prevalence of children with complex chronic conditions (CCCs) in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs). However, information on the nutritional status (NS) of this specific population is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the NS of critically ill pediatric patients with CCCs and to relate it to clinical outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study of children admitted to a PICU over a 4-year period. We classified NS according to body mass index-for-age (BMI/A) and height-for-age (H/A) z-scores, using the World Health Organization (WHO) growth curves as a reference. We recorded the presence of CCC according to the definition proposed by Feudtner et al. Severity on admission was measured using the Pediatric Index of Mortality 2 (PIM2). We assessed the following outcomes: mortality, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome during PICU stay, and PICU length of stay (LOS).

RESULTS

We included 1753 children in the study. Presence of CCC accounted for 49.8% (873) of the sample. Among children with CCCs, 61.7% (539) had appropriate weight, 19.8% (173) were underweight, and 18.4% (161) were overweight. H/A was considered inadequate in 32.2% (281) of patients with CCCs, a higher rate than in those without CCCs (25.3%; 132) (p < 0.001). Regarding outcomes, underweight children had more organ dysfunctions and prolonged LOS. The association only remained for prolonged LOS when adjusting for confounders. Although underweight children had a higher PIM2-predicted risk of mortality, there was no significant difference in actual mortality between the three NS groups (p = 0.200).

CONCLUSIONS

The rates of nutritional inadequacies in patients with CCCs were high. Underweight was independently associated with prolonged LOS in children with CCC.

Impact of Management Strategy on Feeding and Somatic Growth in Neonates with Symptomatic Tetralogy of Fallot: Results from the Congenital Cardiac Research Collaborative

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate early growth following primary or staged repair of neonatal symptomatic tetralogy of Fallot (sTOF).

STUDY DESIGN

We performed a retrospective, multicenter cohort study of consecutive infants with sTOF who underwent initial intervention at age ≤30 days, from 2005 to 2017. Management strategies were either primary repair or staged repair (ie, initial palliation followed by complete repair). The primary outcome was change in weight-for-age z-score (ΔWAZ) from the initial intervention to age 6 ± 2 months. Secondary outcomes included method and mode of feeding, feeding-related medications, and feeding-related readmissions. Propensity score adjustment was used to account for baseline differences between groups. A secondary analysis was performed comparing patients stratified by the presence of adequate growth (6-month ΔWAZ > -0.5) or inadequate growth (6-month ΔWAZ ≤ -0.5), independent of treatment strategy.

RESULTS

The study cohort included 143 primary repair subjects and 240 staged repair subjects. Prematurity was more common in the staged repair group. After adjustment, median ΔWAZ did not differ between treatment groups over the first 6 months of life (primary: -0.43 [IQR, -1.17 to 0.50]; staged: -0.31 [IQR, -1.31 to 0.71]; P = .55). For the entire cohort, ΔWAZ was negative (-0.36; IQR, -1.21 to 0.63). There were no between-group differences in the secondary outcomes. Secondary analysis revealed that the subjects with adequate growth were more likely to be orally fed at initial hospital discharge (P = .04).

CONCLUSIONS

In neonates with sTOF, growth trajectory over the first 6 months of life was substandard, irrespective of treatment strategy. Those patients with adequate growth were more likely to be discharged from the index procedure on oral feeds.

Comparison of outcomes between children ventilated in a non‐paediatric intensive care and a paediatric intensive care unit: A retrospective analysis

Background

Lack of paediatric intensive care infrastructure, human resources and expertise in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) often results in critically ill children being managed in non-intensive-care unit (ICU) settings.

Objectives

To compare the mortality between critically ill patients who required ventilation for more than 24 hours in a non-paediatric ICU (PICU) setting v. those admitted directly to a PICU.

Methods

Participants were enrolled if they were between one month and 13 years of age and were ventilated in a non-PICU ward in a regional hospital and a PICU ward in a tertiary/quaternary hospital during the study period of January 2015 - December 2017 in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Descriptive statistics, chi-square test, Wilcoxon test and binary logistic regression were used for data analysis. Ethics approval was obtained (approval number BE568/18 BREC) from the Biostatistics Research Council of the University of KwaZulu-Natal.

Results

Of the 904 admissions, 25.1% (n=227) were admitted to non-PICU and 74.9% (n=677) to a PICU. A significantly higher proportion of non-PICU patients were malnourished than PICU patients (26.4% v. 13.3%, p<0.001). Patients ventilated in a PICU were 76% less likely to die (p<0.001), while patients who required inotropes were 15.08 (9.68 - 24.34) times more likely to die (p<0.001). There was a statistically significant association between admission setting and survival outcome, with higher mortality in the non-PICU setting than in the PICU setting (46.3% v. 19.5%, p<0.001).

Conclusion

Critically ill children ventilated in a non-PICU setting in KwaZulu-Natal are more likely to be malnourished, require inotropes and have higher mortality. Although increasing access to PICU bed availability is a long-term goal, the high mortality in the non-PICU setting highlights the need to optimise the availability of resources in these non-PICU wards, optimise and train the staff, and improve primary healthcare services.

Wasting and associated factors among critically ill children admitted to pediatric intensive care unit in Ethiopia

Background

Nutritional problems are increasingly associated with acute infections. It is also related to further complications of illnesses and poor treatment outcomes of medical conditions. This study aimed to assess wasting and associated factors among critically ill children admitted to intensive care units at the time of admission.

Methods

An institution-based prospective observational study was employed among children admitted to pediatric intensive care of the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from February 1, 2018, to July 30, 2019. Data about socio-demographic, clinical, and anthropometric measurements were taken from children at the time of admission and length of hospital stay and treatment-related data were collected by chart review at discharge. Summary measures were computed and presented in the form of text, tables, and graphs. A p-value of less than 0.2 was used to select candidate variables for multivariable analysis. A binary logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors associated with wasting. Adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence interval (CI) was calculated and variables with a p-value less than 0.05 in the multi-variable analysis were considered to declare factors associated with wasting.

Results

The median age at admission was 48 (IQR: 12 to 122) months. Of the total admitted children to ICU, 47.97% were undernourished, of which 32% (95%CI: (26.8% to 37.4%) were severely wasted. Caregivers who had no formal education (AOR=4.43, 95%CI 1.62 12.10), transferred from wards (AOR=2.98, 95%CI: 1.02 8.69), duration of illness ≥6 days before health facility visit (AOR=2.14, 95%CI: 1.22 3.72) and comorbidity (AOR=6.85, 95%CI: 2.93 16.05) were statistically significant factors associated with wasting.

Conclusion

Wasting was high among children admitted to the intensive care unit. No formal education, transferred from wards and operation rooms, longer duration of illness before health facility visits, and comorbidity were factors associated with wasting. Wasted patients had higher mortality as compared to patients with no wasting. A multicenter study with larger sample size is recommended for a more generalizable result.

Is Undernutrition Associated With Deterioration of Outcomes in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU): Systematic and Meta-Analysis Review

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Undernutrition (UN) may negatively impact clinical outcomes for hospitalized patients. The relationship between UN status at pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission and clinical outcomes is still not well-reported. This systematic meta-analysis review evaluated the impact of UN at admission to PICU on clinical outcomes, including mortality incidence, length of stay (LOS), and the need for and length of time on mechanical ventilation (MV).

METHODS

A search was conducted using relevant and multi-medical databases from inception until January 2022. We considered studies that examined the link between UN at PICU admission and clinical outcomes in patients aged 18 years or younger. Pooled risk difference estimates for the PICU outcomes were calculated using a random-effects model.

RESULT

There were a total of 10,638 patients included in 17 observational studies; 8,044 (75.61%) and 2,594 (24.38%) patients, respectively, were normal-nourished (NN) and undernourished (UN). In comparison to NN patients, UN patients had a slightly higher risk of mortality (RD = 0.02, P = 0.05), MV usage (RD = 0.05, P = 0.02), and PICU LOS (RD = 0.07, P = 0.007). While the duration of MV was significantly longer in UN than in NN (RD = 0.13, P < 0.0001). Sensitivity analysis of UN classification cohorts with a z-score < -2 or in the 5%, patetints age up to 18 years, and mixed diagnose for PICU admission demonstrated a 6-fold increase in the probability of PICU LOS in UN patients compared to NN patients (RD = 0.06, 95% CI = 0.01, 0.12). UN patients have a higher risk of MV usage RD = 0.07, 95% CI = 0.00, 0.14) in studies involving cohorts with a mixed primary diagnosis for PICU admission.

CONCLUSION

In PICU, UN is linked to mortality incidence, longer PICU stay, MV usage, and duration on MV. The primary diagnosis for PICU admission may also influence clinical outcomes. Determining the prevalence of UN in hospitalized patients, as well as the subgroups of patients diagnosed at the time of admission, requires more research. This may help explain the relationship between nutritional status and clinical outcomes in PICU patients.

Bolus Gastric Feeds Improve Nutritional Delivery to Mechanically Ventilated Pediatric Medical Patients: Results of the COntinuous vs BOlus (COBO2) Multi-Center Trial

BACKGROUND

Comparison of bolus (BGF) versus continuous gastric feeding (CGF) with respect to timing and delivery of energy and protein in mechanically ventilated pediatric patients has not been investigated. We hypothesized that bolus delivery would shorten time to goal nutrition and increase the percentage of goal feeds delivered.

METHODS

Multi-center, prospective, randomized comparative effectiveness trial conducted in seven Pediatric ICUs (PICUs). Eligibility criteria: 1 month - 12 years of age, intubated within 24 hours of PICU admission, expected duration of ventilation at least 48 hours, eligible to begin enteral nutrition within 48 hours.

EXCLUSION CRITERIA

acute or chronic gastrointestinal pathology, or acute surgery.

RESULTS

We enrolled 158 mechanically ventilated children between October 2015 and April 2018; 147 patients were included in the analysis (BGF = 72, CGF = 75). The BGF group was slightly older than CGF, otherwise the two groups had similar demographic characteristics. There was no difference in the percentage of patients in each group that achieved goal feeds. Time to goal feeds was shorter in the BGF [Hazard Ratio 1.5 (CI 1.02-2.33); P = 0.0387]. Median percentage of target kilocalories [median kcal 0.78 vs 0.59; p = <.0001], and median percentage of protein delivered [median pro 0.77 vs 0.59; p = <.0001] was higher for BGF patients. There was no difference in serial oxygen saturation index between groups.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrated shorter time to achieve goal nutrition via BGF compared to CGF in mechanically ventilated pediatric patients. This resulted in increased delivery of target energy and nutrition. Further study is needed in other PICU populations. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Nutritional screening tool for critically ill children: a systematic review

CONTEXT

Nutritional screening tools (NSTs) are used to identify patients who are at risk of nutritional status (NS) deterioration and associated clinical outcomes. Several NSTs have been developed for hospitalized children; however, none of these were specifically developed for Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) patients.

OBJECTIVE

A systematic review of studies describing the development, application, and validation of NSTs in hospitalized children was conducted to critically appraise their role in PICU patients.

DATA SOURCES

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, SciELO, LILACS, and Google Scholar were searched from inception to December 11, 2020.

DATA EXTRACTION

The review included 103 studies that applied NSTs at hospital admission. The NST characteristics collected included the aims, clinical setting, variables, and outcomes. The suitability of the NSTs in PICU patients was assessed based on a list of variables deemed relevant for this population.

DATA ANALYSIS

From 19 NSTs identified, 13 aimed to predict NS deterioration. Five NSTs were applied in PICU patients, but none was validated for this population. NSTs did not include clinical, NS, laboratory, or dietary variables that were deemed relevant for the PICU population.

CONCLUSION

None of the available NSTs were found to be suitable for critically ill children, so a new NST should be developed for this population. AQ6.

SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42020167898.

The state of nutrition in medical education in the United States

Despite the significant impact diet has on health, there is minimal nutrition training for medical students. This review summarizes published nutrition learning experiences in US medical schools and makes recommendations accordingly. Of 902 articles, 29 met inclusion criteria, describing 30 learning experiences. Nutrition learning experiences were described as integrated curricula or courses (n = 10, 33%), sessions (n = 17, 57%), or electives (n = 3, 10%). There was heterogeneity in the teaching and assessment methods utilized. The most common was lecture (n = 21, 70%), often assessed through pre- and/or postsurveys (n = 19, 79%). Six studies (26%) provided experience outcomes through objective measures, such as exam or standardized patient experience scores, after the nutrition learning experience. This review revealed sparse and inconsistent data on nutrition learning experiences. However, based on the extant literature, medical schools should build formal nutrition objectives, identify faculty and physician leadership in nutrition education, utilize preexisting resources, and create nutrition learning experiences that can be applied to clinical practice.

Can they stomach it? Parent and practitioner acceptability of a trial comparing gastric residual volume measurement versus no gastric residual volume in UK NNU and PICUs: a feasibility study

BACKGROUND

Routine measurement of gastric residual volume (GRV) to guide feeding in neonatal and paediatric intensive care is widespread. However, this practice is not evidence based and may cause harm. As part of a feasibility study, we explored parent and practitioner views on the acceptability of a trial comparing GRV measurement or no GRV measurement.

METHODS

A mixed-methods study involving interviews and focus groups with practitioners and interviews with parents with experience of tube feeding in neonatal and/or paediatric intensive care. A voting system recorded closed question responses during practitioner data collection, enabling the collection of quantitative and qualitative data. Data were analysed using thematic analysis and descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

We interviewed 31 parents and nine practitioners and ran five practitioner focus groups (n=42). Participants described how the research question was logical, and the intervention would not be invasive and potential benefits of not withholding the child's feeds. However, both groups held concerns about the potential risk of not measuring GRV, including delayed diagnosis of infection and gut problems, increased risk of vomiting into lungs and causing discomfort or pain. Parent's views on GRV measurement and consent decision making were influenced by their views on the importance of feeding in the ICU, their child's prognosis and associated comorbidities or complications.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of parents and practitioners viewed the proposed trial as acceptable. Potential concerns and preferences were identified that will need careful consideration to inform the development of the proposed trial protocol and staff training.

Are Nutritional Guidelines Followed in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit?

Background: French (2014) and American (2017) pediatric guidelines recommend starting enteral nutrition (EN) early in pediatric intensive care. The aims of this study were to compare the applicability of the guidelines in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) and to identify risk factors of non-application of the guidelines. Methods: This retrospective, single-center study was conducted in a medical-surgical PICU between 2014 and 2016. All patients from 1 month to 18 years old with a length of stay >48 h and an exclusive EN at least 1 day during the PICU stay were included. The outcome variable was application of the 2014 and 2017 guidelines, defined by energy intakes ≥90% of the recommended intake at least 1 day as defined by both guidelines. The risk factors of non-application were studied comparing "optimal EN" vs. "non-optimal EN" groups for both guidelines. Results: In total, 416 children were included (mortality rate, 8%). Malnutrition occurred in 36% of cases. The mean energy intake was 34 ± 30.3 kcal kg^-1 day^-1. The 2014 and 2017 guidelines were applied in 183 (44%) and 296 (71%) patients, respectively (p < 0.05). Following the 2017 guidelines, enteral energy intakes were considered as "satisfactory enteral intake" for 335 patients (81%). Hemodynamic failure was a risk factor of the non-application of both guidelines. Conclusion: In our PICU, the received energy intake approached the level of intake recommended by the American 2017 guidelines, which used the predictive Schofield equations and seem more useful and applicable than the higher recommendations of the 2014 guidelines. Multicenter studies to validate the pediatric guidelines seem necessary.

Nutrition Evaluation Screening Tool: An Easy to Use Screening Tool for Hospitalised Children

PURPOSE

Nutrition screening is vital to ensure patients are appropriately managed in hospital. In paediatrics there is currently no universally accepted nutrition screening tool. The Nutrition Evaluation Screening Tool (NEST) was developed as an easy to use and practical screening tool for hospitalised children. We aim to evaluate compliance of the NEST and assess agreement of the NEST with the already validated nutrition screening tools, Screening Tool for Risk on Nutritional Status and Growth (STRONGkids), Screening Tool for the Assessment of Malnutrition in Paediatrics (STAMP) and the Subjective Global Nutritional Assessment (SGNA) tool.

METHODS

Retrospective review of 102 patient episodes at the Evelina London Children's Hospital. Electronic records were used to assess NEST compliance and to complete the nutrition tools for each patient episode. Cohen's kappa was used to determine the level of agreement between each nutrition tool.

RESULTS

There was moderate agreement between the NEST and the two screening tools, STRONGkids (κ=0.472) and STAMP (κ=0.416) for patients on initial screening at admission. 87.2% of patient episodes were NEST compliant within 24 hours of admission to hospital.

CONCLUSION

The moderate agreement between these two already validated screening tools enhances the NEST's validity as a paediatric screening tool. The NEST had the strongest correlation with the SGNA tool compared to other screening tools. The NEST is user friendly screening tool for hospitalised children.

Micronutrient status during paediatric critical illness: A scoping review

BACKGROUND

No evidence based recommendations for micronutrient requirements during paediatric critical illness are available, other than those arising from recommended nutrient intakes (RNI) for healthy children and expert opinion.

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this review is to examine the available evidence from micronutrient status in critically ill children considering studies which describe 1) micronutrient levels, 2) associations between micronutrient levels and clinical outcome, and 3) impact on clinical outcome with micronutrient supplementation during PICU admission.

DESIGN

Scoping review.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Any study which used a qualitative and quantitative design considering causes and consequences of micronutrient levels or micronutrient supplementation during paediatric critical illness.

SOURCES OF EVIDENCE

NICE Healthcare Databases Advanced Search website (https://hdas.nice.org.uk/) was used as a tool for multiple searches, with a content analysis and charting of data extracted.

RESULTS

711 records were identified, 35 were included in the review. Studies evaluated serum micronutrient status was determined on admission day in majority of patients. A content analysis identified (n = 49) initial codes, (n = 14) sub-categories and (n = 5) overarching themes during critical illness, which were identified as: i) low levels of micronutrients, ii) causes of aberrant micronutrient levels, iii) associations between micronutrients levels and outcome, iv) supplementation of micronutrients.

CONCLUSION

During critical illness, micronutrients should be provided in sufficient amounts to meet reference nutrient intakes for age. Although, there is insufficient data to recommend routine supplementations of micronutrients at higher doses during critical illness, the 'absence of evidence should not imply evidence of absence', and well designed prospective studies are urgently needed to elucidate paediatric micronutrient requirements during critical illness. The absence of reliable biomarkers make it challenging to determine whether low serum levels are reflective of a true deficiency or as a result redistribution, particularly during the acute phase of critical illness. As more children continue to survive a PICU admission, particularly those with complex diseases micronutrient supplementation research should also be inclusive of the recovery phase following critical illness.

Nutritional status and nutrition support in critically ill children in Spain: Results of a multicentric study

OBJECTIVES

Critically ill children are often malnourished and require nutrition support (NS). Early enteral nutrition (EEN) seems to be safe in critically ill patients. However, there is a scarcity of data about the management of EEN in sick pediatric patients. The aim of this study was to analyze the nutritional status, NS characteristics, macronutrient supply, and associations between NS and outcomes in critically ill children in Spain.

METHODS

This was a multicentric, prospective, cross-sectional study involving critically ill children who received NS and with an expected length of stay (LOS) in the pediatric intensive care unit of ≥3 d. Anthropometric variables, characteristics of NS, EEN, nutrient supply, and complications were recorded.

RESULTS

We enrolled 86 children. Undernutrition and overweight were more prevalent in children ≤2 y of age than in older children (undernutrition: 40 versus 19%, respectively; overweight: 22.2 versus 14.3%, respectively). Being overweight was associated with a shorter PICU LOS (5.8 ± 2 versus 9.8 ± 6.5; P = 0.005). EN was the preferred method for nutrient delivery. EEN was administered to 58.1% of patients and was more common in children >2 y of age than in younger patients (73.1 versus 44.4%; P = 0.015). EEN was safe and was associated with a higher caloric intake (81.6 ± 35.3 versus 59.6 ± 36.6; P = 0.019). There was a negative correlation between mean time to EN initiation and maximum energy supply (r = -0.32; P = 0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

Malnutrition was prevalent among critically ill children in Spain. Being overweight was associated with a shorter PICU LOS. EEN was safe and was associated with a higher caloric intake; however, it is rarely used in PICUs in Spain.

Persistent inflammation, immunosuppression and catabolism syndrome (PICS) in critically ill children is associated with clinical outcomes: a prospective longitudinal study

BACKGROUND

Persistent inflammation, immunosuppression and catabolism syndrome (PICS) has been described in critically ill adults and may contribute to unfavourable outcomes. The present study aimed to describe and characterise PICS in critically ill children (PICS-ped) and to verify its association with clinical outcomes.

METHODS

A prospective longitudinal study was conducted in a paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) with children aged between 3 months and 15 years. PICS-ped, based on adult definition, was described. PICS-ped was defined as PICU length of stay >14 days; C-reactive protein > 10.0 mg L^-1 ; lymphocytes <25%; and any reduction of mid-upper arm circumference Z-score. Clinical, demographic, nutritional status, nutrition therapy parameters and clinical outcomes were assessed. Statistical analysis comprised Mann-Whitney and Fisher's chi-squared tests, as well as logistic and Cox regression. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

In total, 153 children were included, with a median age of 51.7 months (interquartile range 15.6-123.4 months), and 60.8% male. The mortality rate was 10.5%. The prevalence of PICS-ped was 4.6%. Days using vasoactive drugs and days using antibiotics were associated with PICS-ped. PICS-ped was associated with mortality in crude (odds ratio = 6.67; P = 0.013) and adjusted analysis (odds ratio = 7.14; P = 0.017). PICS-ped was also associated with PICU and hospital length of stay, as well as duration of mechanical ventilation. Similar results were found in a subset of critically ill children who required mechanical ventilation for more than 48 h.

CONCLUSIONS

Children with PICS-ped required antibiotics or vasoactive drugs for a longer period. PICS-ped was associated with poor clinical outcomes in critically ill children. More studies are needed to properly define PICS-ped for this population.

Nutritional Status and Clinical Outcomes in Children with Cancer on Admission to Intensive Care Units

Malnutrition is prevalent among pediatric oncology patients admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), which leads to unfavorable clinical outcomes. This was a secondary data analysis of the nutrition data of 160 pediatric oncology patients admitted to the PICU. Cox's regression (adjusted for sex, age, and pediatric critical illness score) and Chi-square were used to examine the association between nutritional status and outcomes. Most of the patients were diagnosed with leukemia and admitted to PICU for medical reasons. The prevalence of malnutrition was 11.3% according to weight-for-age z-score, 16.3% according to height-for-age z-score, 21.3% according to body mass index-for-age z-score, 14.4% according to weight-for-height z-score, 34.4% according to mid-upper arm circumference-for-age z-score. Anthropometrical parameters that predicted the duration of mechanical ventilation were weight-for-age (hazard ratio [HR], 2.727; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.729-4.302); height-for-age (HR, 1.969; 95% CI, 1.440-2.693); weight-for-height (HR, 2.645; 95% CI, 1.575-4.441); and upper arm muscle area-for-age (HR, 2.098; 95% CI, 1.430-3.077). Length of PICU stay was predicted by weight-for-age (HR, 1.207; 95% CI, 1.014-1.436). Malnutrition is prevalent among pediatric oncology patients admitted to the PICU, which lead to unfavorable clinical outcomes. Comprehensive nutritional status assessment should be performed for these children.

Nutritional support for children during critical illness: European Society of Pediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care (ESPNIC) metabolism, endocrine and nutrition section position statement and clinical recommendations

Background

Nutritional support is considered essential for the outcome of paediatric critical illness. There is a lack of methodologically sound trials to provide evidence-based guidelines leading to diverse practices in PICUs worldwide. Acknowledging these limitations, we aimed to summarize the available literature and provide practical guidance for the paediatric critical care clinicians around important clinical questions many of which are not covered by previous guidelines.

Objective

To provide an ESPNIC position statement and make clinical recommendations for the assessment and nutritional support in critically ill infants and children.

Design

The metabolism, endocrine and nutrition (MEN) section of the European Society of Pediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care (ESPNIC) generated 15 clinical questions regarding different aspects of nutrition in critically ill children. After a systematic literature search, the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) grading system was applied to assess the quality of the evidence, conducting meta-analyses where possible, to generate statements and clinical recommendations, which were then voted on electronically. Strong consensus (> 95% agreement) and consensus (> 75% agreement) on these statements and recommendations was measured through modified Delphi voting rounds.

Results

The final 15 clinical questions generated a total of 7261 abstracts, of which 142 publications were identified relevant to develop 32 recommendations. A strong consensus was reached in 21 (66%) and consensus was reached in 11 (34%) of the recommendations. Only 11 meta-analyses could be performed on 5 questions.

Conclusions

We present a position statement and clinical practice recommendations. The general level of evidence of the available literature was low. We have summarised this and provided a practical guidance for the paediatric critical care clinicians around important clinical questions.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00134-019-05922-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Impact of Palliation Strategy on Interstage Feeding and Somatic Growth for Infants With Ductal-Dependent Pulmonary Blood Flow: Results from the Congenital Catheterization Research Collaborative

Background

In infants with ductal‐dependent pulmonary blood flow, the impact of palliation strategy on interstage growth and feeding regimen is unknown.

Methods and Results

This was a retrospective multicenter study of infants with ductal‐dependent pulmonary blood flow palliated with patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) stent or Blalock‐Taussig shunt (BTS) from 2008 to 2015. Subjects with a defined interstage, the time between initial palliation and subsequent palliation or repair, were included. Primary outcome was change in weight‐for‐age Z‐score. Secondary outcomes included % of patients on: all oral feeds, feeding‐related medications, higher calorie feeds, and feeding‐related readmission. Propensity score was used to account for baseline differences. Subgroup analysis was performed in 1‐ (1V) and 2‐ventricle (2V) groups. The cohort included 66 PDA stent (43.9% 1V) and 195 BTS (54.4% 1V) subjects. Prematurity was more common in the PDA stent group (P=0.051). After adjustment, change in weight‐for‐age Z‐score did not differ between groups over the entire interstage. However, change in weight‐for‐age Z‐score favored PDA stent during the inpatient interstage (P=0.005) and BTS during the outpatient interstage (P=0.032). At initial hospital discharge, PDA stent treatment was associated with all oral feeds (P<0.001) and absence of feeding‐related medications (P=0.002). Subgroup analysis revealed that 2V but not 1V patients demonstrated significant increase in weight‐for‐age Z‐score. In the 2V cohort, feeding‐related readmissions were more common in the BTS group (P=0.008).

Conclusions

In infants with ductal‐dependent pulmonary blood flow who underwent palliation with PDA stent or BTS, there was no difference in interstage growth. PDA stent was associated with a simpler feeding regimen and fewer feeding‐related readmissions.

Undernutrition at PICU Admission Is Predictor of 60-Day Mortality and PICU Length of Stay in Critically Ill Children

BACKGROUND

There are few studies that assess the role of different nutritional assessment variables at pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission in predicting clinical outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To identify nutritional variables in the first 4 days of PICU stay that predict 60-day mortality and time to discharge alive from the PICU.

DESIGN

Single-center prospective study in Southern Brazil, conducted between July 2013 and February 2016. At PICU admission, children with z scores <-2 for body mass index (BMI)-for-age, mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC)-for-age, and triceps skinfold thickness (TSF)-for-age were considered as undernourished.

PARTICIPANTS/SETTING

There were 199 patients, aged <15 years, with PICU stay >48 hours.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Sixty-day mortality and time to discharge alive from the PICU.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS PERFORMED

Cox regression model was applied to determine predictors of 60-day mortality and time to discharge alive from the PICU.

RESULTS

Median age was 23.1 months (interquartile range=3.9 to 89.1), and 63% were male, with 18% prevalence of undernutrition at admission by BMI-for-age. Median PICU stay was 7 days (interquartile range=4 to 12), and 60-day mortality was 12%. After adjusting for sex, age, Pediatric Index of Mortality 2, and presence of complex chronic conditions, undernutrition based on BMI-for-age (hazard ratio [HR]=3.75; 95% CI=1.41 to 9.95; P=0.008), MUAC-for-age (HR=7.62; 95% CI=2.42 to 23.97; P=0.001), and TSF-for-age (HR=4.01; 95% CI=1.14 to 14.15; P=0.031) was associated with higher risk of 60-day mortality. Based on MUAC-for-age with the same adjustment model, undernourished children had longer time to discharge alive from the PICU (HR=0.45; 95% CI=0.21 to 0.98; P=0.045).

CONCLUSIONS

Undernutrition at PICU admission based on different anthropometric variables was predictive of 60-day mortality and longer time to discharge alive from the PICU.

The effect of high fat dietary modification and nutritional status on the outcome of critically ill ventilated children: single-center study

BACKGROUND

Ventilator dependency constitutes a major problem in the intensive care setting. Malnutrition is considered a major determinant of extubation failure, however, attention has been attracted to modulating carbon dioxide production through decreasing carbohydrate loading and increasing the percent of fat in enteral feeds. The detected interrelation between substrate oxidation and ventilation outcome became the base of several research to determine the appropriate composition of the nonprotein calories of diet in ventilated patients.

PURPOSE

We aimed to assess the effect of high-fat dietary modification and nutritional status on ventilatory and final outcomes of pediatric intensive care.

METHODS

Fifty-one ventilated children (1 month to 12 years of age) with pulmonary disease who could be enterally fed, in the Cairo University Pediatric intensive care unit, were divided into 2 groups: group A included 25 patients who received isocaloric high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet; group B included 26 patients who received standard isocaloric diet. Comprehensive nutritional assessment was done for all patients.

RESULTS

Group A had a significant reduction in carbon dioxide tension, but no similar reduction in the duration or level of ventilatory support. Assisted minute ventilation was predicted by weight-for-age and caloric intake rather than the type of diet. Poor nutritional status was associated with higher mortality and lower extubation rates. Mild hypertriglyceridemia and some gastrointestinal intolerance were significant in group A, with no impact on the adequacy of energy or protein delivery.

CONCLUSION

The high-fat enteral feeding protocol may contribute to reducing carbon dioxide tension, with mild hypertriglyceridemia and negligible gastrointestinal intolerance as potential adverse effects. Optimization of nutritional status rather than dietary modification may improve ventilatory and survival outcomes in critically ill-ventilated children.

Comprehensive approach to weaning in difficult-to-wean infantile and juvenile-onset glycogen-storage disease type II patients: a case series

Background

Glycogen storage disease type II (GSD II) is caused by acid alpha-glucosidase (GAA) deficiency. Both infantile-onset and juvenile-onset GSD II lead to proximal muscle weakness and respiratory insufficiency and require mechanical ventilation. However, GSD II is also independently associated with delayed weaning from mechanical ventilation. This study aimed to describe a comprehensive approach including sequential invasive-noninvasive mechanical ventilation weaning and enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) in patients with weaning difficulties.

Case presentation

We studied six difficult-to-wean GSD II (three juvenile-onset, three infantile-onset) patients at the First Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University from October 2015 to December 2017. Difficulty in weaning was defined as follows: the need for more than three spontaneous breathing trials or more than 1 week to achieve successful weaning. All patients received comprehensive treatment including sequential invasive-noninvasive mechanical ventilation weaning, ERT and general treatment. Recombinant human acid alpha-glucosidase enzyme therapy (20 mg/kg every 14 days) was used after diagnosis, and Patients 1–6 received ERT for 15.5, 4.5, 2, 2.5, 17, and 2 months, respectively. The therapeutic effect of the comprehensive treatment was observed.

The patients’ respiratory function and limb muscle strength improved after each ERT session. Patients who successfully completed a spontaneous breathing trial could proceed to extubation, and then start non-invasive ventilation. The patients’ age range at initial mechanical ventilation was 3–47 (median 26.5) months, duration of invasive ventilation was 1–36 (median 2.75) months, and duration of noninvasive ventilation was 0–0.6 (median 0.05) month. The patients’ nutritional status improved after enhanced nutritional support. Patients 2, 3, and 5 were successfully weaned off the ventilator. Patient 1 underwent tracheal intubation after six weaning failures, and Patients 4 and 6 died after therapy was abandoned by their parents.

Discussion and conclusions

Male sex, GSD II type, and the presence of malnutrition and neurological impairment may predict poor respiratory outcomes. The above-described comprehensive sequential invasive-noninvasive mechanical ventilation weaning strategy may increase the success rate of weaning from mechanical ventilation.

Nutritional Status Deterioration Occurs Frequently During Children's ICU Stay

OBJECTIVES

Malnutrition and faltering growth at PICU admission have been related to suboptimal outcomes. However, little is known about nutritional status deterioration during PICU stay, as critical illness is characterized by a profound and complex metabolism shift, which affects energy requirements and protein turnover. We aim to describe faltering growth occurrence during PICU stay.

DESIGN

Single-center prospective observational study.

SETTING

Twenty-three-bed general PICU, Lyon, France.

PATIENTS

All critically ill children 0-18 years old with length of stay longer than 5 days were included (September 2013-December 2015).

INTERVENTIONS

Weight and height/length were measured at admission, and weight was monitored during PICU stay, in order to calculate body mass index for age z score. Faltering growth was defined as body mass index z score decline over PICU stay. Children admitted during the first year of the study and who presented with faltering growth were followed after PICU discharge for 3 months.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

We analyzed 579 admissions. Of them, 10.2% presented a body mass index z score decline greater than 1 SD and 27.8% greater than 0.5. Admission severity risk scores and prolonged PICU stay accounted for 4% of the variability in nutritional status deterioration. Follow-up of post-PICU discharge nutritional status showed recovery within 3 months in most patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Nutritional deterioration is frequent and often intense in critically ill children with length of stay greater than 5 days. Future research should focus on how targeted nutritional therapies can minimize PICU faltering growth and improve post-PICU rehabilitation.

Impact of energy deficit during hospitalization and biomarkers at admission on clinical outcomes in critically ill children: A longitudinal study

BACKGROUND & AIMS

To evaluate the impact of energy deficit during hospitalization and the biomarkers albumin and C-reactive protein (CRP) on the clinical outcomes length of stay (LOS) and duration of mechanical ventilation (DMV) in children and adolescents admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of a private hospital in Rio de Janeiro.

METHODS

A longitudinal, retrospective study was conducted of the medical records of patients admitted to the PICU from May 2016 to June 2017 who received enteral nutrition (EN) for 72 h or longer. The cut-off points for serum albumin and CRP were set at ≥3.5 and <2.0, respectively. The energy balance was calculated as the difference between the energy prescribed and the energy received by the patient. The comparison of continuous variables related to LOS and DMV was assessed using Student's t-test and the Mann-Whitney test. The significance value was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Ninety-three patients were selected, with a median age of 32 (±39.49) months. The mean serum albumin and CRP levels were 4.04 (±0.59) and 4.67 (±7.40), respectively. In linear regression models adjusted for length of stay, reduced albumin, increased CRP, and negative energy balance were positively associated. In the models adjusted to DMV, the values for reduced albumin and increased CRP were significant.

CONCLUSION

A significant association was found between serum albumin and CRP at admission and the outcomes under investigation, LOS and DMV. Energy deficit was also associated with LOS.

A 4-Year Integrated Nutrition Curriculum for Medical Student Education

While poor diet is the one of the primary contributors to death and disability in the USA, formal nutrition education in medical schools across the nation remains sparse. As it stands, few medical schools have formally incorporated nutrition education, and fewer still have integrated nutrition into the entire length of their 4-year curriculum. We describe how a new, formally integrated, 4-year nutrition curriculum was developed and is being implemented in a US medical school, and how this program will evolve as part of a twenty-first century medical school education.

Impact of ventricular assist device implantation on the nutritional status of children awaiting heart transplantation

BACKGROUND

Malnutrition is common in pediatric heart failure and is associated with mortality. The effect of VAD support on malnutrition in children is unknown. We sought to compare the prevalence and severity of malnutrition at HT in children on VAD support vs OMT to inform decisions regarding support strategies.

METHODS

Retrospective chart review involving all patients <18 years who underwent HT at Stanford between 1/1/2011 and 3/1/2018. Malnutrition diagnosis and severity were defined by ASPEN guidelines using the lowest age-adjusted z-score for weight (WAZ), height (HAZ), and BMI (BMIZ) when the patient was euvolemic. Changes in z-scores from baseline to HT and across groups were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 104 patients (52 in each group) were included. Among all patients, WAZ (-0.9 vs 0.3, P < 0.001) and BMIZ (0 vs 0.6, P < 0.001) improved while HAZ (-0.9 vs -0.9, P = 0.4) did not. Compared to children on OMT, children on VAD experienced greater increases in WAZ (0.8 vs 0.3, P < 0.001) and BMIZ (0.7 vs 0.2, P < 0.003) at HT. The prevalence of moderate-to-severe malnutrition decreased in VAD patients (40% to 19%, P < 0.001) and increased in OMT patients (37% to 46%, P < 0.001), leading to a lower prevalence of moderate-to-severe malnutrition at HT (19% vs 46%, P = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Malnutrition is common in pediatric HT candidates. Compared to children on OMT, children on VAD support had greater improvement in nutritional status while awaiting HT, and a lower prevalence of malnutrition at HT.

NUTRI-REAPED study: nutritional assessment of French critically ill children and nutrition practice survey in French-speaking pediatric intensive care units

BACKGROUND

Impaired nutritional status is adversely associated with suboptimal outcomes in critically ill children. Undernutrition at pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission ranges from 15 to 65%. A lack of knowledge of the nutritional status of children in French PICUs prevents us from specifically targeting education. This study aims to describe the nutritional status of children in French PICUs and to assess nutritional practices and physicians' knowledge of nutrition, in order to focus NutriSIP (the French-speaking PICU nutrition group) future education programs. A prospective observational multicenter point prevalence study was conducted in French PICUs, recruiting all children admitted over three different weeks. Anthropometric measurements were taken (weight, height/length, mid-upper arm, and head circumferences), in order to calculate nutritional indices. Nutritional status was defined according to WHO Body Mass Index z-score and dynamic assessment based on growth faltering detection. Concurrently, PICU physicians and PICU nurses from seven French-speaking countries completed a survey to ascertain knowledge about local nutritional care practices and overall nutrition knowledge. PICU physicians' responses were compared to PICU nurses' responses (previously published).

RESULTS

Four hundred and thirty-two children were included in the observational study from 27 French PICUs. Undernutrition was diagnosed in 18.5% of them, young age and underlying chronic condition being the two independent risk factors. Faltering growth was diagnosed in 4.8% and overweight in 7.4%. Subjective nutritional assessment was not accurate. Thirty-eight French-speaking PICUs completed the survey. These showed nutritional practices frequently did not comply with international guidelines, especially regarding nutritional goals, and the reasons for withholding enteral nutrition. Comparison between physicians' and nurses' responses to the survey showed large discrepancies.

CONCLUSION

Undernutrition is frequent at admission in French PICUs. Nutritional status should be assessed using a holistic approach, because of the potential impact on outcome. French-speaking PICU healthcare professionals need further nutrition education, in order to improve nutritional practices to comply with international recommendations. This study will serve as a baseline to focus NutriSIP teaching programs in the future.

The Association of Nutrition Status Expressed as Body Mass Index z Score With Outcomes in Children With Severe Sepsis: A Secondary Analysis From the Sepsis Prevalence, Outcomes, and Therapies (SPROUT) Study

OBJECTIVES

The impact of nutrition status on outcomes in pediatric severe sepsis is unclear. We studied the association of nutrition status (expressed as body mass index z score) with outcomes in pediatric severe sepsis.

DESIGN

Secondary analysis of the Sepsis Prevalence, Outcomes, and Therapies study. Patient characteristics, ICU interventions, and outcomes were compared across nutrition status categories (expressed as age- and sex-adjusted body mass index z scores using World Health Organization standards). Multivariable regression models were developed to determine adjusted differences in all-cause ICU mortality and ICU length of stay by nutrition status.

SETTING

One-hundred twenty-eight PICUs across 26 countries.

PATIENTS

Children less than 18 years with severe sepsis enrolled in the Sepsis Prevalence, Outcomes, and Therapies study (n = 567).

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Nutrition status data were available for 417 patients. Severe undernutrition was seen in Europe (25%), Asia (20%), South Africa (17%), and South America (10%), with severe overnutrition seen in Australia/New Zealand (17%) and North America (14%). Severe undernutrition was independently associated with all-cause ICU mortality (adjusted odds ratio, 3.0; 95% CI, 1.2-7.7; p = 0.02), whereas severe overnutrition in survivors was independently associated with longer ICU length of stay (1.6 d; p = 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

There is considerable variation in nutrition status for children with severe sepsis treated across this selected network of PICUs from different geographic regions. Severe undernutrition was independently associated with higher all-cause ICU mortality in children with severe sepsis. Severe overnutrition was independently associated with greater ICU length of stay in childhood survivors of severe sepsis.

Prealbumin and Retinol Binding Proteins Are Not Usable for Nutrition Follow-Up in Pediatric Intensive Care Units

PURPOSE

Feeding children is a problem in pediatric intensive care units (PICU) and it is difficult to know the correct amount. The purpose of this study is to evaluate if prealbumin or retinol binding proteins (RBP) are effective relative to daily enteral nutrition, without being affected by severity of diseases or infections and can be used to follow up nutritional amount.

METHODS

This is a prospective observational study that includes 81 patients admitted to PICU in Akdeniz University with estimated duration >72 hours, age between 1 month and 8 years. Daily calorie and protein intake were calculated and prealbumin, RBP and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels were measured on the first, third, fifth and seventh mornings.

RESULTS

We find moderate correlation between daily calorie intake and prealbumin levels (r=0.432, p<0.001), RBP levels and daily protein intake (r=0.330, p<0.001). When we investigated the relationship between changes of prealbumin, RBP, CRP, calorie and protein intake during intensive care stay, we found that increase of Prealbumin and RBP levels are explained by decrease of CRP levels (r=-0.546 and -0.645, p<0.001) and not with increase of nourishment.

CONCLUSION

Even adjusted for PRISM3, age and CRP, prealbumin and RBP are correlated with last 24 hours' diet. However, it is not convenient to use as a follow up biomarker because increase of their levels is related with decrease of CRP levels.