Survey of Nutrition Management Practices in Centers for Pediatric Intestinal Rehabilitation

Anita M. Nucci, Kipp Ellsworth, Austin Michalski, Emily Nagel, Jackie Wessel

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

21 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: Nutrition management of pediatric intestinal failure (IF) requires interdisciplinary coordination of parenteral nutrition (PN) and enteral nutrition (EN) support. Nutrition strategies used by specialists in pediatric intestinal rehabilitation to promote gut adaptation and manage complications have not been previously summarized. Methods: A practice survey was distributed to members of the dietitian subgroup of the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition Pediatric Intestinal Failure Section. The survey included 24 open-ended questions related to PN and enteral feeding strategies, nutrition management of PN-associated liver disease, and laboratory monitoring. Results: Dietitians from 14 centers completed the survey. Management components for patients at risk for cholestasis were consistent and included fat minimization, trace element modification, avoiding PN overfeeding, and providing EN. Parenteral amino acid solutions designed for infants/young children are used in patients <1 or 2 years of age. Trace minerals are dosed individually in 10 of 14 centers. Eleven centers prescribe a continuous infusion of breast milk or elemental formula 1–2 weeks after resection while 3 centers determine the formula type by the extent of resection. Most (86%) centers do not have a protocol for initiating oral/motor therapy. Laboratory panel composition varied widely by center. The selection and frequency of use depended on clinical variables, including cholestatic status, exclusive vs partial PN dependence, postrepletion verification vs routine monitoring, intestinal anatomy, and acuity of care. Conclusion: EN and PN management strategies are relatively consistent among U.S. centers. Collaborative initiatives are necessary to define better practices and establish laboratory monitoring guidelines.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)528-538
Number of pages11
JournalNutrition in Clinical Practice
Volume33
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Aug 2018
Externally publishedYes

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2017 American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition

Keywords

  • enteral nutrition
  • liver failure
  • parenteral nutrition
  • pediatrics
  • short bowel syndrome
  • surveys and questionnaires

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