Interrupted Nutrition Support in Patients With Burn Injuries: A Single-Centre Observational Study

Abstract

Background: Enteral nutrition (EN) is essential to meet the increased metabolic requirements of burn-injured patients. However, feeds are often suspended for care. This study examines the interruptions in EN (IEN). Objective: To determine the frequency and duration of IEN and whether these interruptions are predictable or unpredictable. Design: This retrospective chart review of 27 adult burn patients examined age, sex, body mass index, percentage of total body surface area, length of hospital stay, predicted energy requirements from equations and indirect calorimetry, EN start time, time EN reached goal rate, and interruptions to EN. Results: Predictable interruptions accounted for 74.5% (frequency) and 81.6% (duration) of total interruptions. The most frequent and time-consuming interruptions were perioperative period, extubation, and tests/procedures (predictable) versus high gastric residual volume, emesis/nausea, and feeding tube displacement (unpredictable). Conclusions: Most IEN were due to predictable events. Based on these findings, compensating for predictable interruptions to meet nutritional requirements in burn patients is recommended.