Optimal nutrition therapy in paediatric critical care in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East: a consensus

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Author : Jan Hau Lee, Elizabeth Rogers, Yek Kee Chor, Rujipat Samransamruajkit, Pei Lin Koh, Mohamad Miqdady, Ali Ibrahim Al-Mehaidib, Antonius Pudjiadi, Sunit Singhi, Nilesh M Mehta
Keyword : Asia Pacific, children, critical care, Middle East, nutrition
DOI : 10.6133/apjcn.012016.07
Issue : Asia Pac J Clin Nutr 2016;25(4):676-696
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Abstract

Background and Objectives: Current practices and available resources for nutrition therapy in paediatric inten- sive care units (PICUs) in the Asia Pacific-Middle East region are expected to differ from western countries. Ex- isting guidelines for nutrition management in critically ill children may not be directly applicable in this region. This paper outlines consensus statements developed by the Asia Pacific-Middle East Consensus Working Group on Nutrition Therapy in the Paediatric Critical Care Environment. Challenges and recommendations unique to the region are described. Methods and Study Design: Following a systematic literature search from 2004-2014, consensus statements were developed for key areas of nutrient delivery in the PICU. This review focused on evi- dence applicable to the Asia Pacific-Middle East region. Quality of evidence and strength of recommendations were rated according to the Grading of Recommendation Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. Results: Enteral nutrition (EN) is the preferred mode of nutritional support. Feeding algorithms that optimize EN should be encouraged and must include: assessment and monitoring of nutritional status, selection of feeding route, time to initiate and advance EN, management strategies for EN intolerance and indications for using paren- teral nutrition (PN). Despite heterogeneity in nutritional status of patients, availability of resources and diversity of cultures, PICUs in the region should consider involvement of dieticians and/or nutritional support teams. Conclusions: Robust evidence for several aspects of optimal nutrition therapy in PICUs is lacking. Nutritional assessment must be implemented to document prevalence and impact of malnutrition. Nutritional support must be given greater priority in PICUs, with particular emphasis in optimizing EN delivery.

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