Beneficial Effects of Post Burn Early Enteral Nutrition

Nutrition for Special Groups 3(3+0)

Lesson 37 : Burns

Beneficial Effects of Post Burn Early Enteral Nutrition

  • Nutrient needs satisfied
  • Improved tube feeding tolerance
  • Decreased incidence of bacterial translocation
  • Decreased number of infectious episodes
  • Decreased antibiotic therapy
  • Improved nitrogen balance
  • Reduced urinary catecholamines
  • Diminished serum glucagon
  • Suppressed hypermetabolic response
  • Enhanced visceral protein status

The administration both enterally & parenterally, of low fat formula results in less pneumonia, improved respiratory function, faster recovery of nutrition status and a shorter length of care.

Summary
A great increase in metabolic rate occurs in patients with extensive burns. The hyper metabolism caused by injury induces erosion of lean body mass, negative nitrogen balance and altered glucose metabolism. Burns are classified as first degree, second degree or third degree burns depending on the depth of injury and destruction of the tissues. Metabolic, hormonal biochemical and immunological aberrations are seen. Due to hyper metabolism, there is an increased usage of nutrients. Aggressive nutrition support is required for promoting wound healing, reducing infection, preserving body stores and replacing protein losses. Enteral feeding is necessary if more than 20% of burns occur.

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Last modified: Wednesday, 9 May 2012, 11:15 AM