Tailoring nutrition therapy to illness and recovery

Early protein delivery in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury: post hoc analysis of a multicenter cluster-randomized controlled trial

Background

There is controversy over the optimal early protein delivery in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury (AKI). This study aims to evaluate whether the association between early protein delivery and 28-day mortality was impacted by the presence of AKI in critically ill patients.

Methods

This is a post hoc analysis of data from a multicenter cluster-randomised controlled trial enrolling newly admitted critically ill patients (n = 2772). Participants without chronic kidney disease and with complete data concerning baseline renal function were included in this study. The primary outcome was 28-day mortality. Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyze the association between early protein delivery, reflected by mean protein delivery from day 3-5 after enrollment, 28-day mortality and whether baseline AKI stages interacted with this association.

Results

Overall, 2552 patients were included, among whom 567 (22.2%) had AKI at enrollment (111 stage I, 87 stage II, 369 stage III). Mean early protein delivery was 0.60 ± 0.38 g/kg/day among the study patients. In the overall study cohort, each 0.1 g/kg/day increase in protein delivery was associated with a 5% reduction in 28-day mortality[hazard ratio (HR) = 0.95; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.92-0.98, p < 0.001]. The association between early protein delivery and 28-day mortality significantly interacted with baseline AKI stages (adjusted interaction p = 0.028). Each 0.1 g/kg/day increase in early protein delivery was associated with a 4% reduction in 28-day mortality (HR = 0.96; 95%CI 0.92-0.99, p = 0.011) among patients without AKI and 9% (HR = 0.91; 95%CI 0.84-0.99, p = 0.021) among those with AKI stage III. However, such associations cannot be observed among patients with AKI stages I and II.

Conclusions

Increased early protein delivery (up to close to the guideline recommendation) was associated with reduced 28-day mortality in critically ill patients without AKI and with AKI stage III, but not in those with AKI stage I or II.

Association between protein intake and functional capacity in critically ill patients: A retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Intensive care unit (ICU) protein benchmarks are based on mortality and morbidity; whether these targets also support functional recovery is unknown. We assessed whether different protein doses influenced patients' functional capacity, measured by the Chelsea Physical Assessment score (CPAx).

METHODS

Single-center retrospective cohort study on ICU survivors with length of stay ≥7 days admitted between October 2014 and September 2020. Eligible patients were divided according to protein intake (g/kg/day): low (<0.8), medium (0.8-1.19), high (1.2-1.5), and very high (>1.5). Protein dose effect on CPAx was assessed at ICU discharge with analysis of covariance adjusting for age, illness severity, hospital length of stay before ICU admission, time to start nutrition support, and mechanical ventilation duration. We also investigated effect modification by energy intake and nutrition status.

RESULTS

Enrolled patients (n = 531) were similar for age, nutrition status, and illness severity across groups. CPAxs were nonlinearly associated with protein doses and similar among low, medium, and very high groups. The CPAx for the high group was statistically different (P = 0.014), indicating that the data of three groups could be pooled. Mean CPAx difference remained statistically significant after adjusting for confounding variables (3.9 ± 1.8, P = 0.029 in the four-group model, and 2.7 ± 0.9, P = 0.003 in the pooled two-group model). Energy intake was equivalent between groups and did not modify CPAx. The high group had superior CPAx in both well-nourished and malnourished patients, indicating nutrition status was not an effect modifier.

CONCLUSION

Protein dose 1.2-1.5 g/kg/day was associated with superior functional capacity at ICU discharge compared with other doses. Neither energy intake nor nutrition status modified functional capacity across groups; therefore, the results appear to be influenced by 1.2-1.5 g/kg/day.

Enteral nutrition on discharge from intensive care and 30-day unplanned readmission: An exploratory, retrospective study of association

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Individuals who survive critical illness are often malnourished with inadequate oral nutrient intake after leaving the intensive care unit (ICU). Enteral nutrition (EN) improves nutrient intake but there is limited evidence on the impact of maintaining EN after discharge from the ICU. The objective of this exploratory study was to understand the association between EN maintenance after ICU and 30-day unplanned hospital re-admission, to inform on future prospective research into the effects of post-ICU nutrition.

METHODS

This was a single-centre, retrospective study of ICU patients, requiring ventilation, who received EN for at least 3 days in ICU and were discharged to the ward.

RESULTS

102 patients met the inclusion criteria; 45 (44.1%) maintained EN and 57 (55.9%) discontinued EN after ICU discharge; there were no significant differences in demographics or clinical measures at ICU admission. Reason for EN discontinuation was documented in 38 (66.7%) patients, with 27 (71%) discontinuing EN due to a routine ward practice of feeding tube removal. Unplanned 30-day hospital re-admission occurred in 17 (16.7%) patients overall, 5 (11.1%) in the EN group and 12 (21.1%) in the non-EN group (crude odds ratio [OR] 0.47, 95% CI 0.15, 1.45, p = 0.188). After adjusting for age, sex, BMI and length of stay, there was a persistent trend to lower re-admission rates in the EN group (OR 0.37, 95% CI 0.09, 1.57, p = 0.176).

CONCLUSIONS

EN maintenance after ICU discharge was associated with a trend to lower 30-day unplanned hospital re-admission rates. The clinically relevant reduction of about 50% in unplanned re-admission rates in this exploratory study warrants larger, prospective studies of post-ICU nutrition strategies based on clear discontinuation criteria to optimize nutrition and evaluate patient-centred outcomes.

Does Ileus Represent the Forgotten End Organ Failure in Critical Illness?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review evaluates the current literature on ileus, impaired gastrointestinal transit (IGT), and acute gastrointestinal injury (AGI) and its impact on multiple organ dysfunction syndrome.

RECENT FINDINGS

Ileus is often under recognized in critically ill patients and is associated with significant morbidity and is potentially a marker of disease severity as seen in other organs like kidneys (ATN).

Early Enteral Nutrition (within 48 h) for Patients with Sepsis or Septic Shock: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Medical nutrition therapy provides the opportunity to compensate for muscle wasting and immune response activation during stress and trauma. The objective of this systematic review is to assess the safety and effectiveness of early enteral nutrition (EEN) in adults with sepsis or septic shock.

METHODS

The MEDLINE, Embase, CENTRAL, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, and ICTRP tools were searched from inception until July 2023. Conference proceedings, the reference lists of included studies, and expert content were queried to identify additional publications. Two review authors completed the study selection, data extraction, and risk of bias assessment; disagreements were resolved through discussion. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-randomized studies (NRSs) comparing the administration of EEN with no or delayed enteral nutrition (DEE) in adult populations with sepsis or septic shock.

RESULTS

Five RCTs (n = 442 participants) and ten NRSs (n = 3724 participants) were included. Low-certainty evidence from RCTs and NRSs suggests that patients receiving EEN could require fewer days of mechanical ventilation (MD -2.65; 95% CI, -4.44-0.86; and MD -2.94; 95% CI, -3.64--2.23, respectively) and may show lower SOFA scores during follow-up (MD -1.64 points; 95% CI, -2.60--0.68; and MD -1.08 points; 95% CI, -1.90--0.26, respectively), albeit with an increased frequency of diarrhea episodes (OR 2.23, 95% CI 1.115-4.34). Even though the patients with EEN show a lower in-hospital mortality rate both in RCTs (OR 0.69; 95% CI, 0.39-1.23) and NRSs (OR 0.89; 95% CI, 0.69-1.13), this difference does not achieve statistical significance. There were no apparent differences for other outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Low-quality evidence suggests that EEN may be a safe and effective intervention for the management of critically ill patients with sepsis or septic shock.

Nutrition delivery and the relationship with changes in muscle mass in adult patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: A retrospective observational study

BACKGROUND

Adverse changes in muscle health (size and quality) are common in patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Nutrition delivery may attenuate such changes, yet the relationship with muscle health remains poorly understood. This study explored the association between energy and protein delivery and changes in muscle health measured using ultrasound from baseline to day 10 and 20 in patients receiving ECMO.

METHODS

A secondary analysis of data from a prospective study quantifying changes in muscle health using ultrasound in adults receiving ECMO was completed. Patients were eligible for inclusion if they were prescribed artificial nutrition within 3 days of enrolment and had >1 ultrasound measurement. The primary outcome was the association between protein delivery (grams delivered and percentage of targets received) and change in rectus femoris cross-sectional area (RF-CSA) till day 20. Secondary outcomes were the association between energy and protein delivery and change in RF-CSA till day 10, RF-echogenicity, and quadriceps muscle layer thickness to day 10 and 20. Associations were assessed using Spearman's rank correlation.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients (age: 48 [standard deviation {SD}: 14], 44% male) were included. Mean energy and protein delivery were 1633 kcal (SD: 374 kcal) and 70 g (SD: 17 g) equating to 79% (SD: 19%) of energy and 73% (SD: 17%) of protein targets. No association was observed between protein delivery (r = 0.167; p = 0.495) or the percentage of targets received (r = 0.096; p = 0.694) and change in RF-CSA till day 20. No other significant associations were found between energy or protein delivery and change in RF-CSA, echogenicity, or quadriceps muscle layer thickness at any time point.

CONCLUSIONS

This exploratory study observed no association between nutrition delivery and changes in muscle health measured using ultrasound in patients receiving ECMO. Larger prospective studies are required to investigate the association between nutrition delivery and changes in muscle health in patients receiving ECMO.

The Role of Perioperative Nutritional Status and Supplementation in Orthopaedic Surgery: A Review of Postoperative Outcomes

» Identification of malnourished and at-risk patients should be a standardized part of the preoperative evaluation process for every patient.» Malnourishment is defined as a disorder of energy, protein, and nutrients based on the presence of insufficient energy intake, weight loss, muscle atrophy, loss of subcutaneous fat, localized or generalized fluid accumulation, or diminished functional status.» Malnutrition has been associated with worse outcomes postoperatively across a variety of orthopaedic procedures because malnourished patients do not have a robust metabolic reserve available for recovery after surgery.» Screening assessment and basic laboratory studies may indicate patients' nutritional risk; however, laboratory values are often not specific for malnutrition, necessitating the use of prognostic screening tools.» Nutrition consultation and perioperative supplementation with amino acids and micronutrients are 2 readily available interventions that orthopaedic surgeons can select for malnourished patients.

Nutritional management in critically ill patients with COVID-19: a retrospective multicentre study

INTRODUCTION

Although nutritional treatment is an established pillar of multidisciplinary care provided in critical illness, there are many concerns regarding this issue in severe COVID-19. This observational, retrospective, multicentre study aimed to analyse the approach to nutritional treatment among selected intensive care units (ICUs) in Poland.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The medical records of 129 patients hospitalized in five units due to respiratory failure following COVID-19 were analysed in terms of nutritional management on the eighth day of the ICU stay. The Harris-Benedict equation (HB), Mifflin St. Jeor equation (MsJ) and ESPEN formula (20 kcal kg -1 body weight) were used to estimate the energy target for each patient, and two ESPEN formulas determined the protein target (1 g kg -1 body weight and 1.3 g kg -1 body weight).

RESULTS

Evaluation of nutritional therapy was performed in 129 subjects. The fulfilment of caloric requirement considering the HB, MsJ and ESPEN formula was 66%, 66.7% and 62.5%, respectively. Two clinical centres managed to provide 70% or more of daily caloric requirements. According to the ESPEN formula, the implementation of the protein target was 70%; however, one of the investigated units provided a median of 157% of the protein demand. The nutritional management varied in the preferred route of nutrition administration. Neither method nor grade of nutrition supply influenced biochemical parameters on the 8th day of ICU stay.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant differences in nutritional treatment of critically ill COVID-19 patients in Polish ICUs were noted, which underlines the importance of setting up clear guidelines regarding this issue.

Predictors of acute muscle loss in the intensive care unit: A secondary analysis of an in-bed cycling trial for critically ill patients

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to assist clinicians to identify critically ill patients at greatest risk of acute muscle loss and to analyse the associations between protein intake and exercise on acute muscle loss.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Secondary analysis of a single-centre randomised clinical trial of in-bed cycling using a mixed effects model was undertaken to examine the association between key variables and rectus femoris cross-sectional area (RFCSA). Groups were combined, and key variables for the cohort were modified Nutrition Risk in the Critically Ill (mNUTRIC) scores within the first days following intensive care unit admission, longitudinal RFCSA measurements, percent of daily recommended protein intake, and group allocation (usual care, in-bed cycling). RFCSA ultrasound measurements were taken at baseline and days 3, 7, and 10 to quantify acute muscle loss. All patients received usual care nutritional intake while in the intensive care unit. Patients allocated to the cycling group commenced in-bed cycling once safety criteria were met.

RESULTS

Analysis included all 72 participants, of which 69% were male, with a mean (standard deviation) age of 56 (17) years. Patients received a mean (standard deviation) of 59% (26%) of the minimum protein dose recommended for critically ill patients. Mixed-effects model results indicated that patients with higher mNUTRIC scores experienced greater RFCSA loss (estimate = -0.41; 95% confidence interval [CI] = -0.59 to -0.23). RFCSA did not share a statistically significant association with cycling group allocation (estimate = -0.59, 95% CI = -1.53 to 0.34), the percentage of protein requirements received (estimate = -0.48; 95% CI = -1.16 to 0.19), or a combination of cycling group allocation and higher protein intake (estimate = 0.33, 95% CI = -0.76 to 1.43).

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

We found that a higher mNUTRIC score was associated with greater muscle loss, but we did not observe a relationship between combined protein delivery and in-bed cycling and muscle loss. The low protein doses achieved may have impacted the potential for exercise or nutrition strategies to reduce acute muscle loss.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN 12616000948493).

Acute Changes in Body Muscle Mass and Fat Depletion in Hospitalized Young Trauma Patients: A Descriptive Retrospective Study

Background: Loss of muscle mass, and its strength, is associated with adverse outcomes in many medical and surgical conditions. Trauma patients may get malnourished during their hospital course due to many interrelated contributing factors. However, there is insufficient knowledge on the acute muscle and fat changes in young trauma patients in the early days post-admission. Objective: to explore the diagnosis, feeding status, and outcome of muscle mass loss among young abdominal polytrauma patients. Methods: It was a retrospective study including hospitalized abdominal trauma patients who underwent an abdominal computerized tomographic (CT) examination initially and a follow-up one week later. CT scan-based automatic and manual analysis of the muscles and fat of the abdominal region was calculated and compared. Also, we evaluated the feeding and nutritional values to explore the adequacy of the provided calories and proteins and the potential influence of enteral feeding on the CT-based parameters for muscle loss and fat depletion. Results: There were 138 eligible subjects with a mean age of 32.8 ± 13.5 years; of them, 92% were males. Operative interventions were performed on two-thirds of the patients, including abdominal surgery (43%), orthopedic surgeries (34%), and neurosurgical procedures (8.1%). On admission, 56% received oral feeding, and this rate slightly increased to 58.4% after the first week. Enteral feed was prescribed for the remaining, except for two patients. The percentage of change in the total psoas muscle area was significantly reduced after one week of admission in patients on enteral feed as compared to those in the oral feeding group (p = 0.001). There were no statistically significant differences in the percentages of changes in the CT scan findings except for the total psoas muscle area (p = 0.001) and para-spinal muscle area (p = 0.02), which reduced significantly in the those who underwent laparotomy as compared to those who did not need laparotomy. Trauma patients who underwent emergency abdominal surgery lost muscle and fat over time. Conclusions: Loss of muscle mass and body fat is not uncommon among young trauma patients. Patients who underwent laparotomy are more likely to be affected. Further larger studies are needed to assess the specific features in the younger trauma population and how far this can be influenced by the nutrition status and its impact on the clinical outcomes. It could be early or impending stages of sarcopenia linked to trauma patients, or just acute changes in the muscle and fat, that need further investigation and follow-up after hospital discharge.

ESPEN practical and partially revised guideline: Clinical nutrition in the intensive care unit

Following the new ESPEN Standard Operating Procedures, the previous 2019 guideline to provide best medical nutritional therapy to critically ill patients has been shortened and partially revised. Following this update, we propose this publication as a practical guideline based on the published scientific guideline, but shortened and illustrated by flow charts. The main goal of this practical guideline is to increase understanding and allow the practitioner to implement the Nutrition in the ICU guidelines. All the items discussed in the previous guidelines are included as well as special conditions.

Combining Phenylalanine and Leucine Levels Predicts 30-Day Mortality in Critically Ill Patients Better than Traditional Risk Factors with Multicenter Validation

In critically ill patients, risk scores are used; however, they do not provide information for nutritional intervention. This study combined the levels of phenylalanine and leucine amino acids (PLA) to improve 30-day mortality prediction in intensive care unit (ICU) patients and to see whether PLA could help interpret the nutritional phases of critical illness. We recruited 676 patients with APACHE II scores ≥ 15 or intubated due to respiratory failure in ICUs, including 537 and 139 patients in the initiation and validation (multicenter) cohorts, respectively. In the initiation cohort, phenylalanine ≥ 88.5 μM (indicating metabolic disturbance) and leucine < 68.9 μM (indicating malnutrition) were associated with higher mortality rate. Based on different levels of phenylalanine and leucine, we developed PLA scores. In different models of multivariable analyses, PLA scores predicted 30-day mortality independent of traditional risk scores (p < 0.001). PLA scores were then classified into low, intermediate, high, and very-high risk categories with observed mortality rates of 9.0%, 23.8%, 45.6%, and 81.8%, respectively. These findings were validated in the multicenter cohort. PLA scores predicted 30-day mortality better than APACHE II and NUTRIC scores and provide a basis for future studies to determine whether PLA-guided nutritional intervention improves the outcomes of patients in ICUs.

Multiple portions enteral nutrition and chyme reinfusion of a blunt bowel injury patient with hyperbilirubinemia undergoing open abdomen: A case report

Blunt bowel injury (BBI) is relatively rare but life-threatening when delayed in surgical repair or anastomosis. Providing enteral nutrition (EN) in BBI patients with open abdomen after damage control surgery is challenging, especially for those with discontinuity of the bowel. Here, we report a 47-year-old male driver who was involved in a motor vehicle collision and developed ascites on post-trauma day 3. Emergency exploratory laparotomy at a local hospital revealed a complete rupture of the jejunum and then primary anastomosis was performed. Postoperatively, the patient was transferred to our trauma center for septic shock and hyperbilirubinemia. Following salvage resuscitation, damage control laparotomy with open abdomen was performed for abdominal sepsis, and a temporary double enterostomy (TDE) was created where the anastomosis was ruptured. Given the TDE and high risk of malnutrition, multiple portions EN were performed, including a proximal portion EN support through a nasogastric tube and a distal portion EN via a jejunal feeding tube. Besides, chyme delivered from the proximal portion of TDE was injected into the distal portion of TDE via a jejunal feeding tube. Hyperbilirubinemia was alleviated with the increase in chyme reinfusion. After 6 months of home EN and chyme reinfusion, the patient finally underwent TDE reversal and abdominal wall reconstruction and was discharged with a regular diet. For BBI patients with postoperative hyperbilirubinemia who underwent open abdomen, the combination of multiple portions EN and chyme reinfusion may be a feasible and safe option.

Effects of Postdischarge High-Protein Oral Nutritional Supplements and Resistance Training in Malnourished Surgical Patients: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

The presence of malnutrition is increasingly becoming a postdischarge problem in surgical patients. We aimed to investigate whether oral nutritional supplements combined with resistance training could minimize skeletal muscle atrophy in surgical patients after discharge. This randomized controlled study was conducted at the Department of Surgery, National Hospital of Faroe Islands from 2018 to 2020. A total of 45 patients aged 37−74 years participated and were allocated to one of three groups: diet (DI; n = 13), exercise and diet (EX + DI; n = 16), or control (CON; n = 16). The intervention period lasted 8 weeks. The intervention groups received individual dietary counselling and a protein-rich oral nutritional supplement twice a day containing 22 g of protein/day. Patients in the EX + DI group were assigned to resistance training sessions. Patients in the CON group received standard care. The primary outcome was change in lean body mass (LBM). Secondary outcomes were change in body weight, handgrip strength, quality of life, surgery-related side effects, energy and protein intake, length of stay and one-year mortality. To estimate within-group changes, linear mixed models including group−time interactions as fixed effects and patients as random effects were fitted. Within-group change in LBM was 233, 813 and 78 g in the DI, EX + DI and CON groups, respectively, with no significant between-group difference (p > 0.05). Pain score declined more (p = 0.04) in the EX + DI group compared with the CON group. Body weight, handgrip strength, quality of life and surgery-related side effects did not differ between groups. At the end of study, mean cumulative weight change in the DI and EX + DI groups was 0.4% and 1.6%, respectively, whereas the CON group experienced a weight loss of −0.6%. No significant difference in primary outcome between groups was noted. However, our results indicate some benefits from exercise and nutrition for malnourished surgical patients.

Self-propelled micro/nanobots: A new insight into precisely targeting cancerous cells through intelligent and deep cancer penetration

Cancer overlooks are globally one of the most dangerous and life-threatening tribulations. While significant advances have been made in the targeted delivery of anti-cancer medications over the last few years, several challenges, such as low efficacy and strong toxic effects, remain to be addressed. Micro/nanomotors have been thoroughly studied for both effective cancer detection and treatment, as demonstrated by significant advancements in the architecture of smart and functional micro/nanomotor biomedical systems. Able to self-propelled within fluid media, micro/nanomotors have attractive vehicles to maximize the efficacy of tumor delivery. Here, we present the current developments in the delivery, detection, and imaging-guided treatment of micro/nanomotors in the clinical field, including cancer-related specific targeted drug delivery, and then discuss the barriers and difficulties encountered by micro/nanomotors throughout the medical process. Furthermore, this paper addresses the potential growth of micro/nanomotors for medical applications, and sets out the current drawbacks and future research directions for more advancement.

How much underfeeding can the critically ill adult patient tolerate?

Critical illness leads to significant metabolic alterations that should be considered when providing nutritional support. Findings from key randomized controlled trials (RCTs) indicate that underfeeding (<70% of energy expenditure [EE]) during the acute phase of critical illness (first 7 days of intensive care unit [ICU] admission) may not be harmful and could instead promote autophagy and prevent overfeeding in light of endogenous energy production. However, the optimal energy target during this period is unclear and full starvation is unlikely to be beneficial. There are limited data regarding the effects of prolonged underfeeding on clinical outcomes in critically ill patients, but recent studies show that oral food intake is suboptimal both in the ICU and following discharge to the acute care setting. It is hypothesized that provision of full nutrition (70-100% of EE) may be important in the recovery phase of critical illness (>7 days of ICU admission) for promoting recovery and rehabilitation; however, studies on nutritional intervention delivered from ICU admission through hospital discharge are needed. The aim of this review is to provide a narrative synthesis of the existing literature on metabolic alterations experienced during critical illness and the impact of underfeeding on clinical outcomes in the critically ill adult patient.

Impact of COVID-19 Infection and Persistent Lingering Symptoms on Patient Reported Indicators of Nutritional Risk and Malnutrition

Persistent malnutrition after COVID-19 infection may worsen outcomes, including delayed recovery and increased risk of rehospitalization. This study aimed to determine dietary intakes and nutrient distribution patterns after acute COVID-19 illness. Findings were also compared to national standards for intake of energy, protein, fruit, and vegetables, as well as protein intake distribution recommendations. Participants (≥18 years old, n = 92) were enrolled after baseline visit at the Post-COVID Recovery Clinic. The broad screening battery included nutritional assessment and 24-h dietary recall. Participants were, on average, 53 years old, 63% female, 69% non-Hispanic White, and 59% obese/morbidly obese. Participants at risk for malnutrition (48%) experienced significantly greater symptoms, such as gastric intestinal issues, loss of smell, loss of taste, or shortness of breath; in addition, they consumed significantly fewer calories. Most participants did not meet recommendations for fruit or vegetables. Less than 39% met the 1.2 g/kg/day proposed optimal protein intake for recovery from illness. Protein distribution throughout the day was skewed; only 3% met the recommendation at all meals, while over 30% never met the threshold at any meal. Our findings highlight the need for nutritional education and support for patients to account for lingering symptoms and optimize recovery after COVID-19 infection.

Nutrition support for critically ill patients

Nutrition support is an important aspect of the management of critically ill patients. This review highlights the emerging evidence on critical care nutrition and focuses on the pathophysiologic interplay between critical illness, the gastrointestinal tract, and nutrition support and the evidence on the best route, dose, and timing of nutrition. Although indirect calorimetry is recommended to measure energy expenditure, predictive equations are commonly used but are limited by their inaccuracy in individual patients. The current evidence supports early enteral nutrition (EN) in most patients, with a gradual increase in the daily dose over the first week. Delayed EN is warranted in patients with severe shock. According to recent trials, parenteral nutrition seems to be as effective as EN and may be started if adequate EN is not achieved by the first week of critical illness. A high protein dose has been recommended, but the best timing is unclear. Immuno-nutrition should not be routinely provided to critically ill patients. Patients receiving artificial nutrition should be monitored for metabolic derangements. Additional adequately powered studies are still needed to resolve many unanswered questions.

Impact of an interdisciplinary nutrition support team (NST) on the clinical outcome of critically ill patients. A pre/post NST intervention study

BACKGROUND

Intensive care unit (ICU) patients are at particular risk for malnutrition with major impact for outcome and prognosis. Nutrition support teams (NST) have been proposed to improve nutrition care in ICU patients.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effectiveness of an interdisciplinary NST on anthropometry and clinical outcome of ICU patients.

METHODS

Before NST implementation, we assessed 120 patients (before NST group; SAPS II score 44 ± 16), afterwards 60 patients (after NST group), of whom 29 received NST guidance (after NST + group; SAPS II 65 ± 19) and 31 not (after NST - group; SAPS II, 54 ± 16). The primary outcome parameter was length of stay in the hospital (hospital-LOS). Severity of disease was assessed by the APACHE II score and the nutritional risk (NUTRIC) score.

RESULTS

NST intervention resulted in a more pronounced improvement of disease severity (APACHE II, from 27 ± 8 to 18 ± 6, p < 0.001; NUTRIC, from 7 ± 2 to 4 ± 2, p < 0.001) compared to no NST intervention (APACHE II from 24 ± 7 to 21 ± 7, p < 0.05; NUTRIC from 6 ± 2 to 5 ± 2, p < 0.01). The mean hospital-LOS was not reduced, neither in the NST intervention group nor in the control group without NST intervention. NST intervention failed to improve nutritional status or mortality compared to no NST intervention.

CONCLUSION

In our study the NST intervention had a positive effect on disease severity, but failed to improve mortality, hospital-LOS or nutritional status in ICU patients, likely because of a large patient heterogeneity.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT02200874).

Feasibility of a home-based interdisciplinary rehabilitation program for patients with Post-Intensive Care Syndrome: the REACH study

BACKGROUND

Survivors of critical illness experience long-term functional challenges, which are complex, heterogeneous, and multifactorial in nature. Although the importance of rehabilitation interventions after intensive care unit (ICU) discharge is universally recognized, evidence on feasibility and effectiveness of home-based rehabilitation programs is scarce and ambiguous. This study investigates the feasibility of an interdisciplinary rehabilitation program designed for patients with Post-Intensive Care Syndrome (PICS) who are discharged home.

METHODS

A mixed method, non-randomized, prospective pilot feasibility study was performed with a 6-month follow-up, comparing the intervention (REACH) with usual care. REACH was provided by trained professionals and included a patient-centered, interdisciplinary approach starting directly after hospital discharge. Primary outcomes were patient safety, satisfaction, adherence, referral need and health care usage. Secondary outcomes, measured at 3 timepoints, were functional exercise capacity, self-perceived health status, health-related quality of life (HRQoL), return to work and psychotrauma. Risk of undernutrition was assessed at baseline.

RESULTS

43 patients with a median mechanical ventilation duration of 8 (IQR:10) days, were included in the study and 79.1% completed 6-month follow-up. 19 patients received the intervention, 23 received usual care. Groups were similar for gender distribution and ICU length of stay. No adverse events occurred. REACH participants showed higher satisfaction with treatment and reported more allied health professional visits, while the usual care group reported more visits to medical specialists. Qualitative analysis identified positive experiences among REACH-professionals related to providing state-of-the-art interventions and sharing knowledge and expertise within an interprofessional network. Similar recovery was seen between groups on all secondary outcomes, but neither group reached reference values for HRQoL at 6 months. Larger return to work rates were seen in the REACH group. Prevalence of undernutrition at hospital discharge was high in both groups (> 80%), warranting the need for careful tuning of physical therapy and nutritional interventions.

CONCLUSIONS

This study shows that providing early, home-based rehabilitation interventions for patients with PICS-related symptoms is feasible and perceived positively by patients and professionals. When provided in an interdisciplinary collaborative network state of the art, person-centered interventions can be tailored to individual needs potentially increasing patient satisfaction, adherence, and efficacy. Registered in the Dutch Trial register: NL7792: https://www.trialregister.nl/trial/7792 , registered 7-06-2019.

Medical nutrition therapy for patients with malnutrition post-intensive care unit discharge: A case report of recovery from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)

Patients discharged from an intensive care unit (ICU) are frequently malnourished and experience ongoing inadequate nutrition intake because of a variety of barriers, which may lead to further declines in nutrition status. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has drawn increased awareness to this vulnerable patient population and the importance of nutrition rehabilitation to promote optimal recovery from acute illness. Despite this, there are no formal guidelines addressing medical nutrition therapy during the post-ICU recovery phase. This review provides an overview of the nutrition management of patients during the post-ICU recovery phase with a specific focus on COVID-19. A case study will demonstrate how medical nutrition therapy improved the nutrition status and quality of life for a patient who became severely malnourished after a prolonged hospitalization for COVID-19.

Critical care nutrition and COVID-19: a cause of malnutrition not to be underestimated

Malnutrition in critical care is highly prevalent and well documented to have adverse implications on morbidity and mortality. During the current COVID-19 pandemic, the evolving literature has been able to identify high risk groups in whom unfavourable outcomes are more common, for example, obesity, premorbid status, male sex, members from the Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) community and others. Nutritional status and provision precritical and pericritical phase of COVID-19 illness is gaining traction in the literature assessing how this can influence the clinical course. It is therefore of importance to understand and address the challenges present in critical care nutrition and to identify and mitigate factors contributing to malnutrition specific to this patient group. We report a case of significant disease burden and the associated cachexia and evidence of malnutrition in a young 36-year-old male with Somalian heritage with no pre-existing medical conditions but presenting with severe COVID-19 during the first wave of the pandemic (March 2020). We highlight some key nutritional challenges during the critical phase of illness signposting to some of the management instigated to counter this. These considerations are hoped to provide further insight to help continue to evolve nutritional management when treating patients with COVID-19.

Nutrition-related symptoms in adult survivors of critical illness who are eating orally: a scoping review protocol

OBJECTIVE

This review will explore and map the current literature on the nutritional impact of symptoms reported by adult survivors of critical illness who are eating orally after discharge from the intensive care unit (ICU).

INTRODUCTION

Survivors of critical care often experience ICU-acquired weakness and poor functional recovery. It is plausible that nutrition interventions throughout their recovery could improve outcomes for these patients. Although a growing number of studies aim to explore the effect of nutrition delivered in the early phases of critical illness, this is also important post-ICU discharge, particularly in already nutritionally compromised patients presenting with muscle loss and fatigue. Therefore, the development of targeted nutrition interventions will be informed by a comprehensive insight into the physiological, physical, or psychological difficulties that critically ill patients experience after ICU discharge, which may impede oral intake.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

This review will consider primary research studies with adult patients 18 years and older, who are in the recovery phase after being critically ill, and eating orally. Studies must report on any symptoms related to the ability to eat, or represent nutrition inadequacy or utilization.

METHODS

A scoping review will be conducted in accordance with JBI methodology using a three-step search strategy of MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, AMED, Web of Science, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, and JBI Evidence-based Practice Database to obtain primary research studies that meet the inclusion criteria. Duplicates will be removed, and study selection and data extraction will be conducted and cross-checked by two independent reviewers. Data synthesis will involve presenting the results in tabular form.

Metabolism of Proteins and Amino Acids in Critical Illness: From Physiological Alterations to Relevant Clinical Practice

The clinical impact of nutrition therapy in critically ill patients has been known for years, and relevant guidelines regarding nutrition therapy have emphasized the importance of proteins. During critical illness, such as sepsis or the state following major surgery, major trauma, or major burn injury, patients suffer from a high degree of stress/inflammation, and during this time, metabolism deviates from homeostasis. The increased degradation of endogenous proteins in response to stress hormones is among the most important events in the acute phase of critical illness. Currently published evidence suggests that adequate protein supplementation might improve the clinical outcomes of critically ill patients. The role of sufficient protein supplementation may even surpass that of caloric supplementation. In this review, we focus on relevant physiological alterations in critical illness, the effects of critical illness on protein metabolism, nutrition therapy in clinical practice, and the function of specific amino acids.

Effect of an intensified individual nutrition therapy on serum metabolites in critically ill patients - A targeted metabolomics analysis of the ONCA study

PURPOSE

The effect of medical nutrition on serum metabolomics has been poorly explored. The aim of the study was to investigate the relation between energy supply and metabolic profiles in critically ill patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty mechanically ventilated patients on enteral nutrition (EN) or enteral/parenteral nutrition (EN/PN) were randomized into two groups. One group received an individual energy supply based on indirect calorimetry (IC group, n = 9), the other group received a standard energy supply based on a formula, the standard care group (SC group, n = 11). Targeted metabolomics was performed in early-, late- and post-acute metabolic phase.

RESULTS

Individual versus standard care energy supply resulted in a metabolite class separation between the IC and the SC group (P < 0.001). In the SC group concentrations of four glucogenic amino acids and three biogenic amines increased between the early- and late-acute metabolic phase (P < 0.05). The metabolomics pattern differed between the routes of nutrition administration (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSIONS

The amount of energy supply by EN or PN, besides other factors, seems to modulate serum metabolites. Nutrition therapy based on individualized energy supply is associated with a reduction of metabolites reflecting catabolism. Therefore, metabolomics could be a new tool to determine metabolic phases in critically ill patients.

Endogenous Glucose Production in Critical Illness

Regulation of endogenous glucose production (EGP) by hormonal, neuronal, and metabolic signaling pathways contributes to the maintenance of euglycemia under normal physiologic conditions. EGP is defined by the generation of glucose from substrates through glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis, usually in fasted states, for local and systemic use. Abnormal increases in EGP are noted in patients with diabetes mellitus type 2, and elevated EGP may also impact the pathogenesis of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and congestive heart failure. In this narrative review, we performed a literature search in PubMed to identify recently published English language articles characterizing EGP in critical illness. Evidence from preclinical and clinical studies demonstrates that critical illness can disrupt EGP through multiple mechanisms including increased systemic inflammation, counterregulatory hormone and catecholamine release, alterations in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, insulin resistance, lactic acidosis, and iatrogenic insults such as vasopressors and glucocorticoids administered as part of clinical care. EGP contributes to hyperglycemia in critical illness when abnormally elevated and to hypoglycemia when abnormally depressed, each of which has been independently associated with increased mortality. Increased EGP may also promote protein catabolism that could worsen critical illness myopathy and impede recovery. Better understanding of the mechanisms and factors contributing to dysregulated EGP in critical illness may help in the development of therapeutic strategies that promote euglycemia, reduce intensive care unit-associated catabolism, and improve patient outcomes.

Point-Counterpoint: Indirect Calorimetry Is Essential for Optimal Nutrition Therapy in the Intensive Care Unit

Iatrogenic malnutrition and underfeeding are ubiquitous in intensive care units (ICUs) worldwide for prolonged periods after ICU admission. A major driver leading to the lack of emphasis on timely ICU nutrition delivery is lack of objective data to guide nutrition care. If we are to ultimately overcome current fundamental challenges to effective ICU nutrition delivery, we must all adopt routine objective, longitudinal measurement of energy targets via indirect calorimetry (IC). Key evidence supporting the routine use of IC in the ICU includes (1) universal societal ICU nutrition guidelines recommending IC to determine energy requirements; (2) data showing predictive equations or body weight calculations that are consistently inaccurate and correlate poorly with measured energy expenditure, ultimately leading to routine overfeeding and underfeeding, which are both associated with poor ICU outcomes; (3) recent development and worldwide availability of a new validated, accurate, easy-to-use IC device; and (4) recent data in ICU patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) showing progressive hypermetabolism throughout ICU stay, emphasizing the inaccuracy of predictive equations and marked day-to-day variability in nutrition needs. Thus, given the availability of a new validated IC device, these findings emphasize that routine longitudinal IC measures should be considered the new standard of care for ICU and post-ICU nutrition delivery. As we would not deliver vasopressors without accurate blood pressure measurements, the ICU community is only likely to embrace an increased focus on the importance of early nutrition delivery when we can consistently provide objective IC measures to ensure personalized nutrition care delivers the right nutrition dose, in the right patient, at the right time to optimize clinical outcomes.

Early Enteral Nutrition in Mechanically Ventilated Patients With COVID-19 Infection

Background

Nutrition therapy is essential in critically ill adults. Little is known about appropriate nutrition therapy in patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection.

Methods

This was a retrospective, observational study in adult patients with confirmed COVID‐19 infection receiving mechanical ventilation. Data regarding patient demographics and nutrition therapy were collected. Patients that received enteral nutrition within 24 hours of starting mechanical ventilation were compared with patients starting enteral nutrition later. The primary outcome was inpatient length of stay. Propensity score matching was conducted to control for baseline differences in patient groups.

Results

One hundred fifty‐five patients were included in final analysis. Patients who received enteral nutrition within 24 hours received a significantly greater daily amount of calories (17.5 vs 15.2 kcal/kg, P = .015) and protein (1.04 vs 0.85 g/kg, P = .003). There was no difference in length of stay (18.5 vs 23.5 days, P = .37). The propensity score analysis included 100 patients. Following propensity scoring, significant differences in daily calorie (17.7 [4.6] vs 15.1 [5.1] kcal/kg/d, P = .009) and protein (1.03 [0.35] vs 0.86 [0.38] g/kg/d, P = .014) provision remained. No differences in length of stay or other outcomes were noted in the propensity score analysis.

Conclusion

Initiation of enteral nutrition within 24 hours was not associated with improved outcomes in mechanically ventilated adults with COVID‐19. No harm was detected either. Future research should seek to clarify optimal timing of enteral nutrition initiation in patients with COVID‐19 who require mechanical ventilation.

Energy expenditure and indirect calorimetry in critical illness and convalescence: current evidence and practical considerations

The use of indirect calorimetry is strongly recommended to guide nutrition therapy in critically ill patients, preventing the detrimental effects of under- and overfeeding. However, the course of energy expenditure is complex, and clinical studies on indirect calorimetry during critical illness and convalescence are scarce. Energy expenditure is influenced by many individual and iatrogenic factors and different metabolic phases of critical illness and convalescence. In the first days, energy production from endogenous sources appears to be increased due to a catabolic state and is likely near-sufficient to meet energy requirements. Full nutrition support in this phase may lead to overfeeding as exogenous nutrition cannot abolish this endogenous energy production, and mitochondria are unable to process the excess substrate. However, energy expenditure is reported to increase hereafter and is still shown to be elevated 3 weeks after ICU admission, when endogenous energy production is reduced, and exogenous nutrition support is indispensable. Indirect calorimetry is the gold standard for bedside calculation of energy expenditure. However, the superiority of IC-guided nutritional therapy has not yet been unequivocally proven in clinical trials and many practical aspects and pitfalls should be taken into account when measuring energy expenditure in critically ill patients. Furthermore, the contribution of endogenously produced energy cannot be measured. Nevertheless, routine use of indirect calorimetry to aid personalized nutrition has strong potential to improve nutritional status and consequently, the long-term outcome of critically ill patients.

Evaluation of a Nasoenteral Feeding Tube With Balloon to Facilitate Placement

BACKGROUND

Enteral feeding is essential for critically ill, head trauma, and burn patients who are unable to swallow.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate a new nasoenteral feeding tube with distal tip balloon designed to facilitate post-pyloric migration and avoid misplacement in the trachea.

METHODS

A case series was conducted in 50 critically ill patients aged 19 to 89 years receiving mechanical ventilation and requiring enteral nutrition in a teaching hospital. Patients received a soft, flexible, kink-resistant nasoenteral feeding tube with a balloon near the distal tip to enhance postpyloric migration by peristalsis. The feeding tube was inserted with a novel thread technique to reduce posterior nasopharyngeal trauma and tube misplacement. Pulse oximetry provided early detection of misplacement into the trachea. Placement was verified by abdominal radiography performed shortly after the procedure and repeated within 24 hours if needed.

RESULTS

Postpyloric placement was achieved at 30 minutes in 24% of patients and by the following morning in 70% of patients. Tracheal intubation occurred in 1 patient but was recognized and corrected without injury. No tube occlusion from kinking occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Early gastric or postpyloric feeding can be provided with this novel feeding tube. Its use facilitates quick bedside recognition of accidental misplacement in the trachea, reducing the chance of pneumothorax. The tip balloon reduces deeper placement into a lung and promotes distal migration into the small intestine. The design prevents occlusion from kinking, which is common with conventional feeding tubes. Nurses easily adopted the tube and insertion technique.

Marked losses of computed tomography-derived skeletal muscle area and density over the first month of a critical illness are not associated with energy and protein delivery

OBJECTIVES

Changes in muscularity during different phases of critical illness are not well described. This retrospective study aimed to describe changes in computed tomography (CT)-derived skeletal muscle area (SMA) and density (SMD) across different weeks of critical illness and investigate associations between changes in these parameters and energy and protein delivery.

METHODS

Thirty-two adults admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) who had ≥2 CT scans at the third lumbar area performed ≥7 d apart were included in the study. CT-derived SMA (cm²) and SMD (Hounsfield units) were determined using specialized software. A range of clinical and nutrition variables were collected for each day between comparator scans. Associations were assessed by Pearson or Spearman correlations.

RESULTS

There was a significant decrease in SMA between the two comparator scans where the first CT scan was performed in ICU wk 1 (n = 20; P < .001), wk 2 (n = 11; P < .007), and wk 3 to 4 (n = 7; P = .012). There was no significant change in SMA beyond ICU wk 5 to 7 (P = .943). A significant decline in SMD was observed across the first 3 wk of ICU admission (P < .001). Overall, patients received a mean 24 ± 6 kcal energy/kg and 1.1 ± 0.4 g protein/kg per study day and 83% of energy and protein requirements according to dietitian estimates. No association between SMA or SMD changes and nutrition delivery were found.

CONCLUSIONS

Critically ill patients experience marked losses of SMA over the first month of critical illness, attenuated after wk 5 to 7. Energy and protein delivery were not associated with degree of muscle loss.

Nutritional survey in critically ill children: a single center study in China

BACKGROUND

The incidence of malnutrition in children, who were admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU), has kept high level over the past 30 years. In addition, nutrition status of critically ill children deteriorates further during the changing of their conditions and may have a negative effect on patients' outcomes. This study aimed to determine the nutritional status of critically ill children and to survey current nutrition practices and support in PICU.

METHODS

In this prospective observational study, 360 critically ill children stayed in the PICU not less than 3 days from Feb. to Nov. in 2017 were enrolled. Each patient underwent nutrition assessment. Nutritional status was determined using Z-scores of length/height-for-age (HAZ), weight-for-age (WAZ), weight-for-height (WHZ), body mass index-for-age (BAZ), based on the World Health Organization child growth standards. We also observed the patients' intake of calories and protein during the first 10 days after admission.

RESULTS

Three hundred and sixty were enrolled in the study. One hundred and eighty-six patients (51.67%) were malnourished at PICU admission, above 50% and 56.45% (105/186) of malnourished patients had severe malnutrition. Except fasting in case of clinical instability in 5.3% (19/360), nutrition was provided in the form of oral feeding in 26.6% (96/360), enteral nutrition (EN) in 56.1% (202/360), parenteral nutrition (PN) in 6.4% (23/360) and mixed support (EN + PN) in 5.6% (20/360). Totally 384 times interruption of feeding happened in the process of EN, and 1.9 times feeding interruption happened to each patient. Twenty-seven point two percent of these patients had more than three times feeding interruption. The severe malnutrition group had significantly greater length of ICU stay and higher mechanical ventilation support rate (P=0.007, P=0.029). Total 44 (44/360, 12.22%) patients died in the study, and the malnutrition was not statistically different between survivor group and death group (P=0.379). More than 85% of the patients had lower daily nutritional intake compared with prescribed goals. Sixty-eight point three percent of the patients received the required calories during EN with median time of 2 [2-4] days. Only 32.7% of patients underwent EN received estimated protein requirements.

CONCLUSIONS

These results showed that malnutrition was common among children admitted to PICU. Furthermore, nutrition delivery was generally inadequate in critically ill children, and nutritional status was getting worsening during PICU.

Outcomes Six Months after Delivering 100% or 70% of Enteral Calorie Requirements during Critical Illness (TARGET). A Randomized Controlled Trial

Rationale: The long-term effects of delivering approximately 100% of recommended calorie intake via the enteral route during critical illness compared with a lesser amount of calories are unknown.Objectives: Our hypotheses were that achieving approximately 100% of recommended calorie intake during critical illness would increase quality-of-life scores, return to work, and key life activities and reduce death and disability 6 months later.Methods: We conducted a multicenter, blinded, parallel group, randomized clinical trial, with 3,957 mechanically ventilated critically ill adults allocated to energy-dense (1.5 kcal/ml) or routine (1.0 kcal/ml) enteral nutrition.Measurements and Main Results: Participants assigned energy-dense nutrition received more calories (percent recommended energy intake, mean [SD]; energy-dense: 103% [28] vs. usual: 69% [18]). Mortality at Day 180 was similar (560/1,895 [29.6%] vs. 539/1,920 [28.1%]; relative risk 1.05 [95% confidence interval, 0.95-1.16]). At a median (interquartile range) of 185 (182-193) days after randomization, 2,492 survivors were surveyed and reported similar quality of life (EuroQol five dimensions five-level quality-of-life questionnaire visual analog scale, median [interquartile range]: 75 [60-85]; group difference: 0 [95% confidence interval, 0-0]). Similar numbers of participants returned to work with no difference in hours worked or effectiveness at work (n = 818). There was no observed difference in disability (n = 1,208) or participation in key life activities (n = 705).Conclusions: The delivery of approximately 100% compared with 70% of recommended calorie intake during critical illness does not improve quality of life or functional outcomes or increase the number of survivors 6 months later.

Measured Energy Expenditure Compared With Best-Practice Recommendations for Obese, Critically Ill Patients-A Prospective Observational Study

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to compare recommendations in the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) Guidelines for the Provision and Assessment of Nutrition Support Therapy in the Adult Critically Ill Patient with measured energy expenditure in obese, critically ill adults.

METHODS

After enrollment, measured energy expenditure was attempted at baseline and twice weekly to extubation or day 14. Data are reported as median [interquartile range].

RESULTS

Twenty patients were included. The median baseline and subsequent measured energy expenditures were 2438 [1807-2703] kcal and 2919 [2318-3362] kcal, respectively. Baseline measured energy expenditures were -491 [-788 to -323] kcal lower than subsequent measurements, and week 1 measurements were lower than those of week 2. The median bias between the guideline recommendation of 11-14 kcal/kg of actual body weight and measured expenditure at baseline was -950 [-1254 to -595] kcal/d and -1618 [-1820 to -866] kcal/d at subsequent measurements.

CONCLUSION

Clinically significant variation was observed between measured expenditure and guideline recommendations at all time points.

Nutrition therapy in critical illness: a review of the literature for clinicians

Nutrition therapy during critical illness has been a focus of recent research, with a rapid increase in publications accompanied by two updated international clinical guidelines. However, the translation of evidence into practice is challenging due to the continually evolving, often conflicting trial findings and guideline recommendations. This narrative review aims to provide a comprehensive synthesis and interpretation of the adult critical care nutrition literature, with a particular focus on continuing practice gaps and areas with new data, to assist clinicians in making practical, yet evidence-based decisions regarding nutrition management during the different stages of critical illness.

Malnutrition and its effects in severely injured trauma patients

Purpose

In hospitalized patients, malnutrition is associated with adverse outcomes. However, the consequences of malnutrition in trauma patients are still poorly understood. This study aims to review the current knowledge about the pathophysiology, prevalence, and effects of malnutrition in severely injured patients.

Methods

A systematic literature review in PubMed and Embase was conducted according to PRISMA-guidelines.

Results

Nine review articles discussed the hypermetabolic state in severely injured patients in relation to malnutrition. In these patients, malnutrition negatively influenced the metabolic response, and vice versa, thereby rendering them susceptible to adverse outcomes and further deterioration of nutritional status. Thirteen cohort studies reported on prevalences of malnutrition in severely injured patients; ten reported clinical outcomes. In severely injured patients, the prevalence of malnutrition ranged from 7 to 76%, depending upon setting, population, and nutritional assessment tool used. In the geriatric trauma population, 7–62.5% were malnourished at admission and 35.6–60% were at risk for malnutrition. Malnutrition was an independent risk factor for complications, mortality, prolonged hospital length of stay, and declined quality of life.

Conclusions

Despite widespread belief about the importance of nutrition in severely injured patients, the quantity and quality of available evidence is surprisingly sparse, frequently of low-quality, and outdated. Based on the malnutrition-associated adverse outcomes, the nutritional status of trauma patients should be routinely and carefully monitored. Trials are required to better define the optimal nutritional treatment of trauma patients, but a standardized data dictionary and reasonable outcome measures are required for meaningful interpretation and application of results.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1007/s00068-020-01304-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

What more can community nurses do to manage adult malnutrition

This article gives an outline of the key groups at risk of malnutrition in the community and the effects and clinical consequences of not identifying and managing these groups. It outlines the potential health and social costs of not identifying and treating malnutrition in the community and advises how malnutrition arises in these 'at-risk' groups. As 93% of those affected by malnutrition are living in our communities, advice is given on how community nurses can play a pivotal role in identifying malnutrition by initiating conversations about dietary intake with patients and integrating screening and nutritional care into pathways of care.

Nutrition therapy and critical illness: practical guidance for the ICU, post-ICU, and long-term convalescence phases

BACKGROUND

Although mortality due to critical illness has fallen over decades, the number of patients with long-term functional disabilities has increased, leading to impaired quality of life and significant healthcare costs. As an essential part of the multimodal interventions available to improve outcome of critical illness, optimal nutrition therapy should be provided during critical illness, after ICU discharge, and following hospital discharge.

METHODS

This narrative review summarizes the latest scientific insights and guidelines on ICU nutrition delivery. Practical guidance is given to provide optimal nutrition therapy during the three phases of the patient journey.

RESULTS

Based on recent literature and guidelines, gradual progression to caloric and protein targets during the initial phase of ICU stay is recommended. After this phase, full caloric dose can be provided, preferably based on indirect calorimetry. Phosphate should be monitored to detect refeeding hypophosphatemia, and when occurring, caloric restriction should be instituted. For proteins, at least 1.3 g of proteins/kg/day should be targeted after the initial phase. During the chronic ICU phase, and after ICU discharge, higher protein/caloric targets should be provided preferably combined with exercise. After ICU discharge, achieving protein targets is more difficult than reaching caloric goals, in particular after removal of the feeding tube. After hospital discharge, probably very high-dose protein and calorie feeding for prolonged duration is necessary to optimize the outcome. High-protein oral nutrition supplements are likely essential in this period. Several pharmacological options are available to combine with nutrition therapy to enhance the anabolic response and stimulate muscle protein synthesis.

CONCLUSIONS

During and after ICU care, optimal nutrition therapy is essential to improve the long-term outcome to reduce the likelihood of the patient to becoming a "victim" of critical illness. Frequently, nutrition targets are not achieved in any phase of recovery. Personalized nutrition therapy, while respecting different targets during the phases of the patient journey after critical illness, should be prescribed and monitored.

Medical Nutrition Therapy in Critically Ill Patients Treated on Intensive and Intermediate Care Units: A Literature Review

Medical nutrition therapy in critically ill patients remains challenging, not only because of the pronounced stress response with a higher risk for complications, but also due to their heterogeneity evolving from different phases of illness. The present review aims to address current knowledge and guidelines in order to summarize how they can be best implemented into daily clinical practice. Further studies are urgently needed to answer such important questions as best timing, route, dose, and composition of medical nutrition therapy for critically ill patients and to determine how to assess and to adapt to patients’ individual needs.

The malnourished surgery patient: a silent epidemic in perioperative outcomes?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

As many as two of every three major surgery patients are malnourished preoperatively - a diagnosis rarely made and treated even less frequently. Unfortunately, perioperative malnutrition is perhaps the least often identified surgical risk factor and is among the most treatable to improve outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

Two important perioperative nutrition guidelines were published recently. Both emphasize nutrition assessment as an essential component of preoperative screening. The recently published perioperative nutrition screen (PONS) readily identifies patients at malnutrition risk, allowing for preoperative nutritional optimization. The use of computerized tomography scan and ultrasound lean body mass (LBM) evaluation to identify sarcopenia associated with surgical risk and guide nutrition intervention is garnering further support. Preoperative nutrition optimization in malnourished patients, use of immunonutrition in all major surgery, avoidance of preoperative fasting, inclusion of postoperative high-protein nutritional supplements, and early postoperative oral intake have all recently been shown to improve outcomes and should be utilized.

SUMMARY

The recent publication of new surgical nutrition guidelines, the PONS score, and use of LBM assessments will allow better identification and earlier intervention on perioperative malnutrition. It is essential that in the future no patient undergoes elective surgery without nutrition screening and nutrition intervention when malnutrition risk is identified.

Nutritrauma: A Key Concept for Minimising the Harmful Effects of the Administration of Medical Nutrition Therapy

Critically ill patients often require life support measures such as mechanical ventilation or haemodialysis. Despite the essential role of nutrition in patients’ recovery, the inappropriate use of medical nutrition therapy can have deleterious effects, as is the case with the use of respiratory, circulatory, or renal support. To increase awareness and to monitor the effects of inappropriate medical nutrition therapy, we propose to introduce the concept of nutritrauma in clinical practice, defined as metabolic adverse events related to the inappropriate administration of medical nutrition therapy or inadequate nutritional monitoring.

Measuring and monitoring lean body mass in critical illness

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

To help guide metabolic support in critical care, an understanding of patients' nutritional status and risk is important. Several methods to monitor lean body mass are increasingly used in the ICU and knowledge about their advantages and limitations is essential.

RECENT FINDINGS

Computed tomography scan analysis, musculoskeletal ultrasound, and bioelectrical impedance analysis are emerging as powerful clinical tools to monitor lean body mass during ICU stay. Accuracy, expertise, ease of use at the bedside, and costs are important factors which play a role in determining which method is most suitable. Exciting new research provides an insight into not only quantitative measurements, but also qualitative measurements of lean body mass, such as infiltration of adipose tissue and intramuscular glycogen storage.

SUMMARY

Methods to monitor lean body mass in the ICU are under constant development, improving upon bedside usability and offering new modalities to measure. This provides clinicians with valuable markers with which to identify patients at high nutritional risk and to evaluate metabolic support during critical illness.

Selenium in Cardiac Surgery

Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element that plays a pivotal role in many of the body's regulatory and metabolic functions, especially during times of stress. After uptake, Se is incorporated into several Se-dependent proteins, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant capacities. Several observational clinical studies have demonstrated that Se deficiency can cause chronic cardiovascular diseases and aggravate organ dysfunction after cardiac surgery and that low levels of Se may be independently associated with the development of organ dysfunction after cardiac surgery. Based on these findings, several studies have investigated the effects of a perioperative Se supplementation strategy. Therefore, the present review describes in depth the pathophysiology and harmful stimuli during cardiac surgery, how Se may counteract these injuries, the different types of Se supplementation strategies that have been evaluated, and current evidence of its clinical significance.

Rapid decreases of key antioxidant molecules in critically ill patients: A personalized approach

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Oxidative stress is regarded a key component of critical illness and has been associated with poor prognosis in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) patients. Diverse antioxidant treatments have been applied to combat oxidative stress in ICU, yet the results were typically disappointing. An explanation for this failure is that all studies utilized antioxidants indiscriminately and did not take into account the antioxidant profile of the patients. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether critically ill patients experience different insufficiencies in three major antioxidants with a "recycling" redox relationship (vitamin C, vitamin E and glutathione) and in the central reductant molecule of many enzymatic antioxidants (NADPH).

METHODS

Sixty mechanically-ventilated adult medical critically ill patients (age: 63.5 ± 17.1; APACHE II score: 21.2 ± 7.4; Glasgow Coma Scale: 6.2 ± 1.9) were enrolled in the study, while 20 healthy age-matched volunteers served as control group. The antioxidant profile and the level of systemic oxidative stress (F₂-isoprostanes) were measured at ICU admission and at days 1 and 7.

RESULTS

The majority of the ICU patients developed rapid and severe antioxidant insufficiencies (by exhibiting less than 50% of the control values) in one (22/60), two (7/60) or three (2/60) of the antioxidants measured, despite the almost similar levels of oxidative stress.

CONCLUSIONS

The wide heterogeneity in antioxidant decreases in response to ICU stay highlights the importance of patient stratification when planning to apply antioxidant treatments and indicates that the successful delivery of personalized clinical nutrition may depend on our ability to identify "responsive" phenotypes.

Nutritional support in the recovery phase of critically ill children

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The metabolic stress response of a critically ill child evolves over time and thus it seems reasonable that nutritional requirements change during their course of illness as well. This review proposes strategies and considerations for nutritional support during the recovery phase to gain optimal (catch-up) growth with preservation of lean body mass.

RECENT FINDINGS

Critical illness impairs nutritional status, muscle mass and function, and neurocognition, but early and high intakes of artificial nutrition during the acute phase cannot resolve this. Although (parenteral) nutrient restriction during the acute phase appears to be beneficial, persistent nutrient restriction, when the metabolic stress response resolves, has short-term and long-term detrimental consequences. Requirements increase markedly during the recovery phase to enable recovery and catch-up growth. Such large amounts of intake demand for alternate approach, especially when intestinal problems constitute a barrier for full enteral feeding. As part of the nutritional recovery, mobilization and exercise are essential to achieve catch-up growth with an optimal body composition.

SUMMARY

During the recovery phase of paediatric critical illness (catch-up) growth and muscle recovery require nutritional intakes at least two times the resting energy expenditure.