Weekend days are not required to accurately measure oral intake in hospitalised patients

Abstract

Grouped energy and protein intakes from WFR in hospitalised patients are similar on weekdays and weekends, although large intra-patient variations occur. Future quantification of oral intake during hospitalisation should include as many days as feasible, although not necessarily weekend days, to reflect true intake.

Oral intake evaluation in patients following critical illness: an ICU cohort study

“…Included in this section are seven key focal points that are outlined: Assess whether the patient is neurologically and physically able to feed themselves. For a patient with significant critical illness weakness, consider delaying NGT removal until a minimum standard of oral intake is achieved. Closely monitor a patient's oral intake after decannulation or extubation, particularly for those patients most at risk. Clearly document oral intake and assessment of nutritional status. For example, weight‐based food records are considered gold standard (Chapple et al, ). Develop clearer guidelines related to the timing of NGT removal, attending to the important barriers to feeding oneself. Collaborate closely with the ICU dietician in the assessment of readiness for NGT removal. Develop clearer processes related to the timing and administration of oral nutrition supplements. …”

“…• Clearly document oral intake and assessment of nutritional status. For example, weight-based food records are considered gold standard (Chapple et al, 2017). • Develop clearer guidelines related to the timing of NGT removal, attending to the important barriers to feeding oneself.…”