Provision of Nutrition Support Therapy in the Adult Critically Ill Patient

Patient Guideline Summary

Publication Date: November 15, 2021

Last Updated: March 3, 2023

Objective

This patient summary means to discuss key recommendations from the American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (ASPEN) for nutrition support therapy in the adult critically ill patient. It is limited to adults 18 years of age and older and should not be used as a reference for children.

Overview

Patients in critical care units have special nutrition needs.

This patient summary focuses on nutritional needs in critically ill patients.

Treatment

There are two methods of feeding patients:
- Enteral – into the stomach, either by mouth or tube
- Parenteral – through an intravenous line
- Both – not recommended during the first week in hospital.
Nutrient classes to be included:
- Calories
- Protein
- Lipids (fat)
ASPEN recommends:
- Calories – 12 and 25 kcal/kg in the first 7–10 days of ICU stay.
- Protein – 1.2–2.0 g/kg/day.
- Lipids:
  - Included in enteral feedings
  - Soybean oil, fish oil or a mixture of oil emulsions are all appropriate for patients who are receiving parenteral nutrition.

Source Citation

Compher C, Bingham AL, McCall M, Patel J, Rice TW, Braunschweig C, McKeever L. Guidelines for the provision of nutrition support therapy in the adult critically ill patient: The American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition. JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2021 Nov 16. doi: 10.1002/jpen.2267. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 34784064.

Disclaimer

The information in this patient summary should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.