A UK and Irish survey of enteral nutrition practices in paediatric intensive care units

Early vs late enteral nutrition in pediatric intensive care unit: Barriers, benefits, and complications

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to define the existing barriers for early enteral nutrition (EEN) in critically ill children and to analyze the differences in nutrient supply, complications, and outcomes between EEN and late EN (LEN).

METHODS

This is a secondary analysis of a multicenter observational, prospective study including critically ill children receiving EN. Variables analyzed included demographic and anthropometric features, caloric and nutrient supply, outcomes, and complications according to the EN onset. Patients were classified into two groups according to the start of EN: 24-EEN vs EN started after 24 h (24-LEN) and 48-EEN vs EN started after 48 h (48-LEN).

RESULTS

Sixty-eight children were enrolled; 22.1% received 24-EEN, and 67.6% received 48-EEN. EN was most frequently delayed in patients older than 12 months, in patients with cardiac disease, and in those requiring mechanical ventilation (MV). Children in the 24-EEN group had shorter duration of MV compared with those in the 24-LEN group (P = 0.04). The 48-EEN group received a higher caloric intake (P = 0.04), reached the caloric target earlier (P < 0.01), and had lower incidence of constipation (P = 0.01) than the 48-LEN group. There was a positive correlation between the time required to reach the maximum caloric intake and the length of pediatric intensive care stay (r = 0.46; P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

EEN may improve nutrient delivery, reduce time on MV, and prevent constipation in critically ill children. No relevant differences between 24-EEN and 48-EEN were found. Cardiac disease, MV, and age older than 12 months were risk factors associated with LEN.

Impact of implementing an evidence-based definition of enteral nutrition intolerance on nutrition delivery: A prospective, cross-sectional cohort study

BACKGROUND

Enteral nutrition (EN) interruptions because of EN intolerance impede nutrient delivery. We aimed to examine whether revising the EN intolerance definition of an algorithm would decrease EN interruptions and improve nutrient delivery in critically ill children.

METHODS

We performed a cross-sectional cohort study including patients who were admitted to our intensive care unit (ICU) for >24 h and received EN. The EN intolerance definition in our nutrition algorithm was modified to include two symptoms of EN intolerance. We compared time to 60% EN adequacy (EN delivered/EN prescribed x 100) and EN interruptions before and after this intervention.

RESULTS

We included 150 eligible patients, 78 and 72 patients in the preimplementation and postimplementation cohorts, respectively. There were no significant differences in demographics and clinical characteristics. The preimplementation and postimplementation cohorts achieved 60% EN adequacy 4 (2-5) days and 3 (2-5) days after ICU admission, respectively (P = 0.59). The preimplementation cohort had a median of 1 (1-2) interruption per patient and the postimplementation cohort 2 (1-3; P = 0.08). The frequency of interruptions because of EN intolerance within the first 8 days of ICU admission was 17 in the preimplementation and 10 in the postimplementation cohorts.

CONCLUSION

Modifying the EN intolerance definition of a nutrition algorithm did not change the time to 60% EN adequacy or total number of EN interruptions in critically ill children. EN intolerance and interruptions continue to limit nutrient delivery. Research on the best definition for EN intolerance and its effect on nutrition outcomes is needed.

Prevalence, Risk Factors and Impact of Nutrition Interruptions in Critically Ill Children

Background: Enteral nutrition interruptions (ENI) are prevalent in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), but there is little evidence of their characteristics. Methods: This is a cross-sectional multicenter study including critically ill children on enteral nutrition. ENIs were classified as PICU procedures, procedures performed outside the PICU (PPOP), feeding intolerance and other criteria. The number and features of ENIs were collected. Results: A total of 75 children were enrolled. There were 41 interruptions affecting 37.3% of the patients with a median duration of 5 ± 9.4 h. The most common reason for ENI was PPOP (41.5%), followed by other criteria. Interruptions were considered preventable in 24.4% of the cases, but only eight were compensated. ENIs were more prevalent among children with cardiac disease (p = 0.047), higher PRISM (p = 0.047) and longer PICU stay (p = 0.035). There was association between PRISM and total interruption time (p = 0.02) and lower caloric intake (p = 0.035). Patients with respiratory illness (p = 0.022) and on noninvasive ventilation (p = 0,028) had fewer ENIs. ENI total time was associated with lower caloric (p = 0.001) and protein (p = 0.02) intake. Conclusions: ENIs are prevalent in PICU, especially in children with higher PRISM, longer PICU stays and cardiac disease, and result in lower caloric and protein intake.

Is bolus or continuous enteral feeding better in critically ill children: An evidence-based review

Inadequate nutrition can lead to increased morbidity and mortality for mechanically ventilated children in the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU). Enteral feeding can either be delivered by gravity bolus (intermittent) feeding or continuously via a pump and in UK PICUs variable practice exists. This evidence-based review therefore aimed to examine the evidence surrounding the two feeding methods for ventilated children, to determine whether one provides better enteral nutrition. Four papers were included, three randomized controlled trials and a systematic review, which provide conflicting evidence. There is some suggestion that bolus feeding may be superior in medical children on PICU to achieve their energy and protein goals faster, however, the clinical significance of the results is questionable and further research is needed to identify whether one method of feeding can impact on patient outcomes.

Nurses' and Physicians' Rationale Behind Clinical Performance and Interpretation of Routine Prefeed Gastric Aspiration in Preterm Infants: A Cross-sectional Study

This study aims at understanding the rationale behind performing prefeed gastric aspirations in preterm infants, how nurses and physicians interpret the gastric aspiration and variations between them, and illuminating potential barriers for omitting routine prefeed aspiration. Nurses and physicians from all Danish neonatal intensive care units completed a questionnaire. Of 682 participants, the majority (94%) indicated that they routinely performed prefeed aspiration, primarily to check the feeding tube placement (nurses: 88%, physicians: 46%). Nurses feared necrotizing enterocolitis when observing a large gastric residual (GR) volume (31%) and green-stained GR (63%). Fewer nurses relative to physicians had "no worries" related to large volumes (15% vs 34%) or green-stained GR (14% vs 24%, both P < .01). More nurses than physicians intended to pause enteral feeding when observing green-stained GR (31% vs 16%, P < .01) and more nurses were concerned of completely omitting routine gastric aspirations (90% vs 46%, P < .05). The rationale behind the clinical use of GR volume and color as markers of necrotizing enterocolitis and feeding intolerance differs markedly between nurses and physicians in Denmark. If routine prefeed gastric aspiration should be omitted, special focus on information about early signs of necrotizing enterocolitis and methods to check tube placement is needed.

Nutritional Management of Patients with Fontan Circulation: A Potential for Improved Outcomes from Birth to Adulthood

Fontan circulation (FC) is a surgically achieved palliation state offered to patients affected by a wide variety of congenital heart defects (CHDs) that are grouped under the name of univentricular heart. The procedure includes three different surgical stages. Malnutrition is a matter of concern in any phase of life for these children, often leading to longer hospital stays, higher mortality rates, and a higher risk of adverse neurodevelopmental and growth outcomes. Notwithstanding the relevance of proper nutrition for this subset of patients, specific guidelines on the matter are lacking. In this review, we aim to analyze the role of an adequate form of nutritional support in patients with FC throughout the different stages of their lives, in order to provide a practical approach to appropriate nutritional management. Firstly, the burden of faltering growth in patients with univentricular heart is analyzed, focusing on the pathogenesis of malnutrition, its detection and evaluation. Secondly, we summarize the nutritional issues of each life phase of a Fontan patient from birth to adulthood. Finally, we highlight the challenges of nutritional management in patients with failing Fontan.

Planned Peri-Extubation Fasting in Critically Ill Children: An International Survey of Practice

INTRODUCTION

Cumulative energy/protein deficit is associated with impaired outcomes in pediatric intensive care Units (PICU). Enteral nutrition is the preferred mode, but its delivery may be compromised by periods of feeding interruptions around procedures, with peri-extubation fasting the most common procedure. Currently, there is no evidence to guide the duration of the peri-extubation fasting in PICU. Therefore, we aimed to explore current PICU fasting practices around the time of extubation and the rationales supporting them.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross sectional electronic survey was disseminated via the European Pediatric Intensive Care Society (ESPNIC) membership. Experienced senior nurses, dieticians or doctors were invited to complete the survey on behalf of their unit, and to describe their practice on PICU fasting prior to and after extubation.

RESULTS

We received responses from 122 PICUs internationally, mostly from Europe. The survey confirmed that fasting practices are often extrapolated from guidelines for fasting prior to elective anesthesia. However, there were striking differences in the duration of fasting times, with some units not fasting at all (in patients considered to be low risk), while others withheld feeding for all patients. Fasting following extubation also showed large variations in practice: 46 (38%) and 26 (21%) of PICUs withheld oral and gastric/jejunal nutrition more than 5 h, respectively, and 45 (37%) started oral feeding based on child demand. The risk of vomiting/aspiration and reducing nutritional deficit were the main reasons for fasting children [78 (64%)] or reducing fasting times [57 (47%)] respectively.

DISCUSSION

This variability in practices suggests that shorter fasting times might be safe. Shortening the duration of unnecessary fasting, as well as accelerating the extubation process could potentially be achieved by using other methods of assessing gastric emptiness, such as gastric point of care ultrasonography (POCUS). Yet only half of the units were aware of this technique, and very few used it.

Growth and Nutritional Intake of Infants with Univentricular Circulation

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the nutritional status and early nutritional intake of infants with univentricular congenital heart disease.

STUDY DESIGN

The included infants underwent a Norwood procedure or hybrid intervention (stage 1) within the first 6 weeks of life, between January 2014 and January 2019, at Children's Health Ireland at Crumlin. Demographic, anthropometric, nutritional intake, and morbidity data were collected.

RESULTS

Data were collected on 90 infants and 1886 neonatal admission days. There was a significant drop in mean weight-for-age z-score (WAZ) between measurements at birth, -0.01 and on discharge post stage 1 surgery -1.45 (P < .01). On hospital discharge (median hospital stay, 25 days) 32% of infants had a WAZ <-2 and 11% had a WAZ <-3. Pre-stage 1, 26% received trophic feeds and 39% received parenteral nutrition. Basal metabolic requirements and target caloric intake (120 kcal/kg) were met on 56% and 13% of admission days, respectively. Infants referred to a dietitian had a shorter time to any form of nutrition support, enteral feeds, and target caloric intake (P < .001, P = .016, and P = .048, respectively). At stage 3 (Fontan) surgery, 15% of infants were classified as stunted (length-for-age z-score [LAZ] <-2).

CONCLUSIONS

The greatest decline in nutritional status occurs in the neonatal period, followed by significant growth stunting by the time of the Fontan procedure. Early involvement of dietitians is critical in the care of this nutritionally fragile group. With the currently low rate of preoperative nutritional support, there may be opportunities to improve intake at this critical stage.

Barriers to the delivery of enteral nutrition in pediatric intensive care units: A national survey

Background and Aim

According to previously reported studies in the literature, a significant number of patients do not receive enteral nutrition in pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) because of avoidable barriers. Optimal nutrition is a fundamental goal in PICU. This study aims to identify the barriers of enteral nutrition in PICU.

Setting and Design

A cross-sectional study of the results of a 25-item questionnaire-based survey distributed during the Annual International Critical Care Conference by the Saudi Critical Care Society.

Methods and material

A 7-point Likert-type scale was used to rank the participants’ responses, and the relative importance index (RII) approach was used to analyze the relative contribution of each indicator to its main theme.

The factor and parallel analysis methods were used to assess the factorial and unidimensionality of the enteral feeding barriers scale.

Results

A total of 223 PICU healthcare workers from various intensive care settings responded to the survey. The top-three perceived barriers for commencing enteral feeding were due to the patient being hemodynamically unstable (M = 3.6 and SD = 1.70), delays and difficulties in obtaining small bowel access in patients not tolerating other types of enteral nutrition (M = 3.4 and SD = 1.52), or severe fluid restriction, particularly in postoperative cardiac surgery (M = 3.3 and SD = 1.59). The top perceived overall barriers to enteral feeding were the dietician-related issues (M = 3.3, SD = 1.32), barriers related to enteral feeding delivery (M = 3.16 and SD = 1.13), and medical practice-related (M = 3 and SD = 1.10) issues. The lowest reported overall barriers were the resource-related obstacles (M = 2.7 and SD = 1.26).

Conclusion

Being hemodynamically unstable and other dietician-related reasons were the top overall barriers in commencing enteral feeding.

Achieving enteral nutrition during the acute phase in critically ill children: Associations with patient characteristics and clinical outcome

BACKGROUND & AIMS

In the absence of methodologically sound randomized controlled trials (RCTs), current recommendations for timing and amount of enteral nutrition (EN) in critically ill children are based on observational studies. These studies have associated achievement of a higher EN intake in critically ill children with improved outcome. Inherent to the observational design of these underlying studies, thorough insight in possible confounding factors to correct for is essential. We evaluated the associations between EN intake and 1) patient and daily clinical characteristics and 2) clinical outcomes adjusted for these patient and clinical characteristics during the first week of critical illness with a multivariable mixed model.

METHODS

This secondary analysis of the multicentre PEPaNIC RCT investigated a subgroup of critically ill children with daily prospectively recorded gastrointestinal symptoms and EN intake during the first week with multivariable analyses using two-part mixed effect models, including multiple testing corrections using Holm's method. These models combined a mixed-effects logistic regression for the dichotomous outcome EN versus no EN, and a linear mixed-effects model for the patients who received any EN intake. EN intake per patient was expressed as mean daily EN as % of predicted resting energy expenditure (% of EN/REE). Model 1 included 40 fixed effect baseline patient characteristics, and daily parameters of illness severity, feeding, medication and gastrointestinal symptoms. Model 2 included these patient and daily variables as well as clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Complete data were available for 690 children. EN was provided in 503 (73%) patients with a start after a median of 2 (IQR 2-3) days and a median % of EN/REE of 38.8 (IQR 14.1-79.5) over the first week. Multivariable mixed model analyses including all patients showed that admission after gastrointestinal surgery (-49%EN/REE; p = 0.002), gastric feeding (-31% EN/REE; p < 0.001), treatment with inotropic agents (-22%EN/REE; p = 0.026) and large gastric residual volume (-64%EN/REE; p < 0.001) were independently associated with a low mean EN intake. In univariable analysis, low mean EN intake was associated with new acquired infections, hypoglycaemia, duration of PICU and hospital stay and duration of mechanical ventilation. However, after adjustment for confounders, these associations were no longer present, except for low EN and hypoglycaemia (-39%EN/REE; p = 0.018).

CONCLUSIONS

Several patient and clinical characteristics during the first week of critical illness were associated with EN intake. No independent associations were found between EN intake and clinical outcomes such as mortality, new acquired infection and duration of stay. These data emphasize the necessity of adequate multivariable adjustment in nutritional support research and the need for future RCTs investigating optimal EN intake.

Barriers to Delivery of Enteral Nutrition in Pediatric Intensive Care: A World Survey

OBJECTIVES

To explore the perceived barriers by pediatric intensive care healthcare professionals (nurses, dieticians, and physicians) in delivering enteral nutrition to critically ill children across the world.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional international online survey adapted for use in pediatric settings.

SETTING

PICUs across the world.

SUBJECTS

PICU nurses, physicians, and dietitians.

INTERVENTIONS

The 20-item adult intensive care "Barriers to delivery of enteral nutrition" survey was modified for pediatric settings, tested, and translated into 10 languages. The survey was distributed online to pediatric intensive care nurses, physicians, and dieticians via professional networks in March 2019 to June 2019. Professionals were asked to rate each item indicating the degree to which they perceived it hinders the provision of enteral nutrition in their PICUs with a 7-point Likert scale from 0 "not at all a barrier" to 6 "an extreme amount."

MEASUREMENT AND MAIN RESULTS

Nine-hundred twenty pediatric intensive care professionals responded from 57 countries; 477 of 920 nurses (52%), 407 of 920 physicians (44%), and 36 of 920 dieticians (4%). Sixty-two percent had more than 5 years PICU experience and 49% worked in general PICUs, with 35% working in combined cardiac and general PICUs. The top three perceived barriers across all professional groups were as follows: 1) enteral feeds being withheld in advance of procedures or operating department visits, 2) none or not enough dietitian coverage on weekends or evenings, and 3) not enough time dedicated to education and training on how to optimally feed patients.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the largest survey that has explored perceived barriers to the delivery of enteral nutrition across the world by physicians, nurses, and dietitians. There were some similarities with adult intensive care barriers. In all professional groups, the perception of barriers reduced with years PICU experience. This survey highlights implications for PICU practice around more focused nutrition education for all PICU professional groups.

Weaning children from temporary tube feeding: Staff survey of knowledge and practices

AIM

To explore the understanding of and practices of health-care workers in weaning children from feeding tubes.

METHODS

An electronic survey of doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals at Children's Health Queensland obtained demographic information and awareness of various areas of tube feeding management particularly tube weaning.

RESULTS

The 155 health-care providers formed three well-matched groups in terms of number and years of experience. Only 18 had formal training in tube weaning. Participants had high levels of knowledge regarding reasons for commencing and possible complications associated with tube feeding. However, health-care providers generally were found to have limited to no knowledge of tube weaning practices. Nearly half of participants (46%) did not know the best time to plan for a tube wean and only 16 indicated that they or their work units documented tube exit plans, regardless of type of feeding tube, in children's medical charts. Time frames were rarely included as part of tube exit plans. Participants ranked medical stability and presence of a safe swallow most highly as important indicators for successful tube weaning. Multidisciplinary management was also identified as valuable. Tube weaning was predominately managed by children's primary health unit/service and largely involved a medical officer and dietician.

CONCLUSIONS

Poor awareness of tube weaning practices such as tube exit strategies may be impacting on the quality of care received by children who are tube fed. Future research should be directed towards developing and evaluating guidelines accompanied by educational resources to further advance tube weaning practices.

Gastric Residual Volume Measurement in U.K. PICUs: A Survey of Practice

OBJECTIVES

Despite little evidence, the practice of routine measurement of gastric residual volume to guide both the initiation and delivery of enteral feeding in PICUs is widespread internationally. In light of increased scrutiny of the evidence surrounding this practice, and as part of a trial feasibility study, we aimed to determine enteral feeding and gastric residual volume measurement practices in U.K. PICUs.

DESIGN

An online survey to 27 U.K. PICUs.

SETTING

U.K. PICUs.

SUBJECTS

A clinical nurse, senior doctor, and dietician were invited to collaboratively complete one survey per PICU and send a copy of their unit guidelines on enteral feeding and gastric residual volume.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENT AND MAIN RESULTS

Twenty-four of 27 units (89%) approached completed the survey. Twenty-three units (95.8%; 23/24) had written feeding guidelines, and 19 units (19/23; 83%) sent their guidelines for review. More units fed continuously (15/24; 62%) than intermittently (9/24; 37%) via the gastric route as their primary feeding method. All but one PICU routinely measured gastric residual volume, regardless of the method of feeding. Eighteen units had an agreed definition of feed tolerance, and all these included gastric residual volume. Gastric residual volume thresholds for feed tolerance were either volume based (mL/kg body weight) (11/21; 52%) or a percentage of the volume of feed administered (6/21; 29%). Yet only a third of units provided guidance about the technique of gastric residual volume measurement.

CONCLUSIONS

Routine gastric residual volume measurement is part of standard practice in U.K. PICUs, with little guidance provided about the technique which may impact the accuracy of gastric residual volume. All PICUs that defined feed tolerance included gastric residual volume in the definition. This is important to know when proposing a standard practice arm of any future trial of no-routine gastric residual volume measurement in critically ill children.

High-energy nutrition in paediatric cardiac critical care patients: a randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Previous studies have shown that feeding a high-energy formula (HF) to infants after cardiac surgery increases energy intake, with fewer side effects on cardiopulmonary function. However, impacts on weight gain and gastrointestinal function remain unclear.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

To determine the impact of HF compared with standard formula on weight gain and gastrointestinal tolerance in postoperative infants with congenital heart disease.

DESIGN

This was a randomized controlled trial.

METHODS

The setting of the study was at a 20-bed cardiac intensive care unit at a tertiary children's hospital in China. Study population included infants <1 year of age who underwent cardiac surgery and were allocated to the intervention group (n = 32) or control group (n = 32). The intervention group received HF (100 kcal/100 mL), and the control group received standard formula (67 kcal/100 mL) for 7 days during the stabilized postoperative period at the cardiac intensive care unit. Primary outcomes were weight gain and gastrointestinal intolerance. Secondary outcomes were energy intake and standard intensive care characteristics.

RESULTS

Infants who received HF (n = 30) showed less weight loss than those who received standard formula (n = 29); -16 g [95% confidence interval (CI): -74 to 42] versus -181 g (95% CI: -264 to -99), P = 0·001. The evaluation of gastrointestinal intolerance showed that the intervention group had several side effects, such as abdominal distension (n = 1), gastric retention (n = 2) and diarrhoea (n = 1), while the control group had no problems. Enteral energy intake in the intervention group was higher than the control group from day three.

CONCLUSION

Infants after cardiac surgery fed with HF gained more weight but had increased feeding intolerance. However, the feeding intolerance symptoms could be relieved by medication and did not affect feeding advancement.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Paediatric intensive care clinicians should consider gradually increasing the energy density of the formula during feeding and assess feeding intolerance signs in some children with malnutrition after cardiac surgery.

A review of feeding intolerance in critically ill children

Ensuring optimal nutrition is vital in critically ill children and enteral feeding is the main route of delivery in intensive care. Feeding intolerance is the most commonly cited reason amongst pediatric intensive care unit healthcare professionals for stopping or withholding enteral nutrition, yet the definition for this remains inconsistent, nebulous, and entirely arbitrary. Not only does this pose problems clinically, but research in this field frequently uses feeding intolerance as an endpoint and the heterogeneity in this definition makes the comparison of studies difficult and meta-analysis impossible. We reviewed the use of, and definitions of, the term feed intolerance in pediatric intensive care research papers in the last 20 years. Gastric residual volume remains the most common factor used to define feed intolerance, despite the lack of evidence for this. Healthcare professionals would benefit from further education to improve their awareness of the limitations of the markers to define feeding intolerance, and the international PICU community needs to agree a consistent definition of this phenomenon to improve consistency in both practice and research.Conclusion: This paper will provide a narrative review of the definitions of, evidence for, and markers of feeding intolerance in critically ill children. What is Known?: • Feeding intolerance is a commonly cited reason amongst pediatric intensive care unit healthcare professionals for stopping or withholding enteral nutrition. • There is no agreed definition for feeding intolerance in critically ill children. What is New?: • This paper provides an up to date review of the definitions of, evidence for, and markers of feeding intolerance in critically ill children. • Despite no evidence, gastric residual volume continues to drive clinical bedside decisions about enteral feeding and feeding tolerance.

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.

Assessing gastric residual volume: a description of nurses' clinical practice

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the differences in nurses' clinical practice for assessing residual gastric volume and identifying the theoretical framework which supports their practice.

METHOD

A cross-sectional study carried out by sending an online questionnaire by e-mail to nurses registered at the Regional Nursing Council of the State of São Paulo.

RESULTS

This study included 598 nursing professionals, with 484 only providing care to adults and 114 exclusively to children. The gastric residual volume test is performed by 83.4% of nursing professionals; in most cases the suspension and prescription of enteral nutritional therapy are performed by the physician. Suspension of enteral nutritional therapy among adults predominantly occurs when the gastric residual volume is equal to 200 ml, and in children when values are less than 100 ml. Procedure after diet suspension involves the return of aspirated gastric contents and maintaining the catheter closed until the next hour in 48.3% of the procedures among adults, and 68.4% among children. 42.9% of the participants in this study were not aware of the theoretical basis that supports the test performance.

CONCLUSION

We can highlight the need for nurses' training and further studies focused on the practice for assessing gastric residual volume.

Early initiated feeding versus early reached target enteral nutrition in critically ill children: An observational study in paediatric intensive care units in Turkey

AIM

Although early enteral nutrition (EN) is strongly associated with lower mortality in critically ill children, there is no consensus on the definition of early EN. The aim of this study was to evaluate our current practice supplying EN and to identify factors that affect both the initiation of feeding within 24 h after paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admission and the adequate supply of EN in the first 48 h after PICU admission in critically ill children.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective, multicentre, observational study in nine PICUs in Turkey. Any kind of tube feeding commenced within 24 h of PICU admission was considered early initiated feeding (EIF). Patients who received more than 25% of the estimated energy requirement via enteral feeding within 48 h of PICU admission were considered to have early reached target EN (ERTEN).

RESULTS

Feeding was initiated in 47.4% of patients within 24 h after PICU admission. In many patients, initiation of feeding seems to have been delayed without an evidence-based reason. ERTEN was achieved in 43 (45.3%) of 95 patients. Patients with EIF were significantly more likely to reach ERTEN. ERTEN was an independent significant predictor of mortality (P < 0.001), along with reached target enteral caloric intake on day 2 associated with decreased mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a substantial variability among clinicians' perceptions regarding indications for delay to initiate enteral feeding in critically ill children, especially after the first 6 h of PICU admission. ERTEN, but not EIF, is associated with a significantly lower mortality rate in critically ill children.

Routine gastric residual volume measurement and energy target achievement in the PICU: a comparison study

Critically ill children frequently fail to achieve adequate energy intake, and some care practices, such as the measurement of gastric residual volume (GRV), may contribute to this problem. We compared outcomes in two similar European Paediatric Intensive Care Units (PICUs): one which routinely measures GRV (PICU-GRV) to one unit that does not (PICU-noGRV). An observational pilot comparison study was undertaken. Eighty-seven children were included in the study, 42 (PICU-GRV) and 45 (PICU-noGRV). There were no significant differences in the percentage of energy targets achieved in the first 4 days of PICU admission although PICU-noGRV showed more consistent delivery of median (and IQR) energy targets and less under and over feeding for PICU-GRV and PICU-noGRV: day 1 37 (14-72) vs 44 (0-100), day 2 97 (53-126) vs 100 (100-100), day 3 84 (45-112) vs 100 (100-100) and day 4 101 (63-124) vs 100 (100-100). The incidence of vomiting was higher in PICU-GRV. No necrotising enterocolitis was confirmed in either unit, and ventilator-acquired pneumonia rates were not significantly different (7.01 vs 12 5.31 per 1000 ventilator days; p = 0.70) between PICU-GRV and PICU-noGRV units.

CONCLUSIONS

The practice of routine gastric residual measurement did not significantly impair energy targets in the first 4 days of PICU admission. However, not measuring GRV did not increase vomiting, ventilator-acquired pneumonia or necrotising enterocolitis, which is the main reason clinicians cite for measuring GRV. What is known: • The practice of routinely measuring gastric residual volume is widespread in critical care units • This practice is increasingly being questioned in critically ill patients, both as a practice that increases • The likelihood of delivering inadequate enteral nutrition amounts and as a tool to assess feeding tolerance What is new: • Not routinely measuring gastric residual volume did not increase adverse events of ventilator acquired pneumonia, necrotising enterocolitis or vomiting. • In the first 4 days of PICU stay, energy target achievement was not significantly different, but the rates of under and over feeding were higher in the routine GRV measurement unit.

Paediatric intensive care nurses' decision-making around gastric residual volume measurement

BACKGROUND

Measuring gastric residual volume (GRV) to guide enteral feeding is a common nursing practice in intensive care units, yet little evidence supports this practice. In addition, this practice has been shown to potentially contribute to inadequate energy delivery in intensive care, which remains a problem in critically ill children.

AIMS

We aimed to explore paediatric intensive care nurses' decision-making surrounding this practice.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional electronic survey in a single mixed general and cardiac surgical PICU in the UK.

RESULTS

The response rate was 59% (91/154), and responding nurses were experienced, with a mean PICU experience of 10·5 years (SD 8·09). The three main reasons for stopping or withholding enteral feeds were: the volume of GRV obtained (67%), the appearance of this gastric aspirate (40%) and the overall clinical condition of the child (23%). Most nurses reported checking GRV primarily to determine 'feed tolerance' (97%) as well as confirming feeding tube position (94%). Nurses' perceived harms from high GRV were: the risk of pulmonary aspiration (44%), malabsorption of feeds (20%) and the risk of vomiting (19%). GRV was measured frequently in this PICU, with 58% measuring GRV before every feed, 27% measuring every 4 h and 17% measuring every 6 h. The majority of nurses (84%) stated they would be worried or very worried if they could not measure GRV routinely.

CONCLUSIONS

PICU nurses' decision-making surrounding initiating and withholding enteral feeds and determining 'feed tolerance' remains heavily based on GRV. PICU nurses have significant fears around patient harm if they do not measure GRV routinely.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

This nursing practice is likely to be one of the factors that impair the delivery of enteral nutrition in critically ill children, and as such, its validity and usefulness needs to be challenged and studied in future research.

Gastric Emptying in Critically Ill Children

BACKGROUND

Delayed gastric emptying (GE) impedes enteral nutrient (EN) delivery in critically ill children. We examined the correlation between (a) bedside EN intolerance assessments, including gastric residual volume (GRV); (b) delayed GE; and (c) delayed EN advancement.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We prospectively enrolled patients ≥1 year of age, eligible for gastric EN and without contraindications to acetaminophen. Gastric emptying was determined by the acetaminophen absorption test, specifically the area under the curve at 60 minutes (AUC₆₀). Slow EN advancement was defined as delivery of <50% of the prescribed EN 48 hours after study initiation. EN intolerance assessments (GRV, abdominal distension, emesis, loose stools, abdominal discomfort) were recorded.

RESULTS

We enrolled 20 patients, median 11 years (4.4-15.5), 50% male. Sixteen (80%) patients had delayed GE (AUC₆₀ <600 mcg·min/mL) and 7 (35%) had slow EN advancement. Median GRV (mL/kg) for patients with delayed vs normal GE was 0.43 (0.113-2.188) vs 0.89 (0.06-1.91), P = .9635. Patients with slow vs rapid EN advancement had median GRV (mL/kg) of 1.02 mL/kg (0.20-3.20) vs 0.27 mL/kg (0.06-1.62), P = .3114, and frequency of altered EN intolerance assessments of 3/7 (42.9%) vs 5/13 (38.5%), P = 1. Median AUC₆₀ for patients with slow vs rapid EN advancement was 91.74 mcg·min/mL (53.52-143.1) vs 449.5 mcg·min/mL (173.2-786.5), P = .0012.

CONCLUSIONS

A majority of our study cohort had delayed GE. Bedside EN intolerance assessments, particularly GRV, did not predict delayed GE or rate of EN advancement. Delayed gastric emptying predicted slow EN advancement. Novel tests for delayed GE and EN intolerance are needed.

Nutrition Support for Children Undergoing Congenital Heart Surgeries: A Narrative Review

Energy imbalance in infants and children with congenital heart disease (CHD) is common and influenced by age, underlying cardiac diagnoses, and presence or absence of congestive heart failure. During the surgical hospitalization period, these children are prone to nutritional deterioration due to stress of surgery, anesthetic/perfusion techniques, and postoperative care. Poor nutrition is associated with increased perioperative morbidity and mortality. This review aims to examine various aspects of nutrition in critically ill children with CHD, including (1) energy expenditure, (2) perioperative factors that contribute to energy metabolism, (3) bedside practices that are potentially able to optimize nutrient delivery, and (4) medium- to long-term impact of energy balance on clinical outcomes. We propose a nutrition algorithm to optimize nutrition of these children in the perioperative period where improvements in nutrition status will likely impact surgical outcomes.

A Nursing Survey on Nutritional Care Practices in French-Speaking Pediatric Intensive Care Units: NutriRéa-Ped 2014

OBJECTIVES

Malnutrition in critically ill children contributes to morbidity and mortality. The French-speaking pediatric intensive care nutrition group (NutriSIP) aims to promote optimal nutrition through education and research.

METHODS

The NutriSIP-designed NutriRéa-Ped study included a cross-sectional survey. This 62-item survey was sent to the nursing teams of all of the French-speaking pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) to evaluate nurses' nutrition knowledge and practices. One nurse per PICU was asked to answer and describe the practices of their team.

RESULTS

Of 44 PICUs, 40 responded in Algeria, Belgium, Canada, France, Lebanon, Luxemburg, and Switzerland. The majority considered nutrition as a priority care but only 12 of the 40 (30%) had a nutrition support team, 26 of the 40 (65%) had written nutrition protocols, and 19 of 39 (49%) nursing teams felt confident with the nutrition goals. Nursing staff generally did not know how to determine nutritional requirements or to interpret malnutrition indices. They were also unaware of reduced preoperative fasting times and fast-track concepts. In 17 of 35 (49%) PICUs, the target start time for enteral feeding was within the first 24 hours; however, frequent interruptions occurred because of neuromuscular blockade, fasting for extubation or surgery, and high gastric residual volumes. Combined pediatric neonatal intensive care units were less likely to perform systematic nutritional assessment and to start enteral nutrition rapidly.

CONCLUSIONS

We found a large variation in nursing practices around nutrition, exacerbated by the lack of nutritional guidelines but also because of the inadequate nursing knowledge around nutritional factors. These findings encourage the NutriSIP to improve nutrition through focused education programs and research.

Risk Factors for Delayed Enteral Nutrition in Critically Ill Children

OBJECTIVE

Delayed enteral nutrition, defined as enteral nutrition started 48 hours or more after admission to the PICU, is associated with an inability to achieve full enteral nutrition and worse outcomes in critically ill children. We reviewed nutritional practices in six medical-surgical PICUs and determined risk factors associated with delayed enteral nutrition in critically ill children.

DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional study using medical records as source of data.

SETTING

Six medical-surgical PICUs in northeastern United States.

PATIENTS

Children less than 21 years old admitted to the PICU for 72 hours or more excluding those awaiting or recovering from abdominal surgery.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

A total of 444 children with a median age of 4.0 years were included in the study. Enteral nutrition was started at a median time of 20 hours after admission to the PICU. There was no significant difference in time to start enteral nutrition among the PICUs. Of those included, 88 children (19.8%) had delayed enteral nutrition. Risk factors associated with delayed enteral nutrition were noninvasive (odds ratio, 3.37; 95% CI, 1.69-6.72) and invasive positive-pressure ventilation (odds ratio, 2.06; 95% CI, 1.15-3.69), severity of illness (odds ratio for every 0.1 increase in pediatric index of mortality 2 score, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.14-1.71), procedures (odds ratio, 3.33; 95% CI, 1.67-6.64), and gastrointestinal disturbances (odds ratio, 2.05; 95% CI, 1.14-3.68) within 48 hours after admission to the PICU. Delayed enteral nutrition was associated with failure to reach full enteral nutrition while in the PICU (odds ratio, 4.09; 95% CI, 1.97-8.53). Nutrition consults were obtained in less than half of the cases, and none of the PICUs used tools to assure the adequacy of energy and protein nutrition.

CONCLUSIONS

Institutions in this study initiated enteral nutrition for a high percentage of patients by 48 hours of admission. Noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation was most strongly associated with delay enteral nutrition. A better understanding of these risk factors and assessments of nutritional requirements should be explored in future prospective studies.

Optimal Nutrition for Acute Rehabilitation in the PICU

Achieving optimal nutrition for a child who is receiving acute rehabilitation in the pediatric intensive care unit requires an individualized approach. Nutrition screening and assessment is necessary to identify children at high risk for complications who require targeted interventions. Early enteral nutrition can improve outcomes, and is thus preferred over parenteral nutrition in the absence of gastrointestinal contraindications. Measurement of caloric requirements with indirect calorimetry is essential to accurately prescribe nutrition support, while monitoring body composition can determine efficacy of nutrition therapies employed. The complex care of critically ill children receiving acute rehabilitation is composed of treatments that compete with delivery of prescribed nutrition. Repeated feeding interruptions can lead to nutrition deficits and prolonged recovery. Nutrition bundles that incorporate evidenced-based nutrition algorithms, methods to overcome nutrition barriers, and nutrition monitoring parameters can direct and optimize nutrition care for critically ill children in need of acute rehabilitation.

Enteral Nutrition in the PICU: Current Status and Ongoing Challenges

Malnutrition in the critically ill or injured child is associated with increased morbidities and mortality in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), whether present upon admission or acquired during the PICU stay. Particular subpopulations such as those with congenital heart disease or severe thermal injury are at highest risk for malnutrition which can worsen with illness progression. A growing body of evidence suggests the presence of a positive association between nutrition support during critical illness and patient outcomes. Enteral nutrition (EN), the preferred route of nutrient delivery, may be a crucial component of care provided in the PICU which modifies the response to critical illness or injury, resulting in improved outcomes. Numerous challenges exist in the delivery of the EN goal in critically ill children. These include accurate assessment of nutrient requirements, hemodynamic instability, feeding intolerance, feeding interruptions, and the lack of a standardized approach to nutrition support. This article describes the current state of the science and challenges related to EN prescription and delivery in the critically ill child. Suggestions for improving EN practice are then presented, in addition to a platform for further research inquiry.

An electronic delphi study to establish pediatric intensive care nursing research priorities in twenty European countries*

OBJECTIVES

To identify and to establish research priorities for pediatric intensive care nursing science across Europe.

DESIGN

A modified three-round electronic Delphi technique was applied. Questionnaires were translated into seven different languages.

SETTING

European PICUs.

PARTICIPANTS

The participants included pediatric intensive care clinical nurses, managers, educators, and researchers. In round 1, the qualitative responses were analyzed by content analysis and a list of research statements and domains was generated. In rounds 2 and 3, the statements were ranked on a scale of one to six (not important to most important). Mean scores and SDs were calculated for rounds 2 and 3.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Round 1 started with 90 participants, with round 3 completed by 64 (71%). The seven highest ranking statements (≥ 5.0 mean score) were related to end-of-life care, decision making around forgoing and sustaining treatment, prevention of pain, education and competencies for pediatric intensive care nurses, reducing healthcare-associated infections, identifying appropriate nurse staffing levels, and implementing evidence into nursing practice. Nine research domains were prioritized, and these were as follows: 1) clinical nursing care practices, 2) pain and sedation, 3) quality and safety, 4) respiratory and mechanical ventilation, 5) child- and family-centered care, 6) ethics, 7) professional issues in nursing, 8) hemodynamcis and resuscitation, and 9) trauma and neurocritical care.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of this study inform the European Society of Pediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care's nursing research agenda in the future. The results allow nurse researchers within Europe to encourage collaborative initiatives for nursing research.

Nutrition algorithms and bedside nutrient delivery practices in pediatric intensive care units: an international multicenter cohort study

BACKGROUND

Enteral nutrition (EN) delivery is associated with improved outcomes in critically ill patients. We aimed to describe EN practices, including details of algorithms and individual bedside practices, in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs).

METHODS

Available EN algorithm details from 31 international PICUs were obtained. Daily nutrient intake data from 524 mechanically ventilated patients, 1 month to 18 years old, were prospectively documented, including EN delivery, adjunct therapies, and energy prescription. Practices associated with higher percentage adequacy of EN delivery were determined by regression analysis.

RESULTS

Nine EN algorithms were available. All algorithms defined advancement and EN intolerance; 7 of 9 defined intolerance by gastric residual volume; 3 of 9 recommended nutrition screening and fasting guidelines. Few elements were in agreement with the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition and the European Society of Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition guidelines. Of the 341 patients who received EN exclusively 32.9% received ≥66.6% of prescribed energy on day 7. Percentage adequacy of EN delivered was inversely associated with days to EN initiation (-8.92; P < .001) and hours per EN interruption (-1.65; P = .001) and was not associated with the use of algorithms, promotility agents, or postpyloric feeding.

CONCLUSIONS

A minority of PICUs employ EN algorithms; recommendations were variable and not in agreement with national guidelines. Optimal EN delivery was achieved in less than one-third of our cohort. EN adjunct therapies were not associated with increased EN delivery. Studies aimed at promoting early EN and decreasing interruptions may optimize energy delivery in the PICU.

A Canadian survey of perceived barriers to initiation and continuation of enteral feeding in PICUs

OBJECTIVE

Clinicians believe nutrition support is important; however, delivery of enteral nutrition may be delayed or interrupted due to a lack of guidelines or perceived contraindications to administration. The aim of this national survey was to examine the knowledge and perceived barriers among clinicians which prevent enteral nutrition administration to PICU patients.

DESIGN

The survey consisted of 23 questions (19 primary and four branching). The survey was validated using a semistructured pilot test by three pediatric critical care intensivists and two pediatric critical care registered dietitians external to the study team.

SETTING

The survey was electronically distributed to clinicians in all PICUs across Canada.

POPULATION

One hundred sixty-two PICU clinicians, including 96 staff intensivists, eight clinical assistants, 36 fellows, and 22 registered dietitians from PICUs across Canada.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

The survey was administered from January to March 2013. The response rate was 50% (55 staff intensivists, two clinical assistants, nine fellows, and 15 registered dietitians). There was high variability among clinicians regarding reasons to delay the onset of enteral nutrition or interrupt enteral nutrition administration. High variability (> 70% agreement and < 10% disagreement or vice versa) was found for some reasons to delay or interrupt enteral nutrition, including lactates (rising or > 2 or > 4 mmol/L), high gastric residual volumes, CT/MRI scans, and hypoplastic left heart syndrome. Sixty-eight percent of PICU clinicians reported no written feeding protocol to be in place.

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, there is high variability among clinicians regarding acceptable procedural and clinical barriers to enteral nutrition administration; this may be improved by a standardized feeding protocol. Therefore, further research must be conducted to provide clinicians with evidence to support their practices for enteral nutrition administration.