Resumen

OSORIO E, Jessica; CASTILLO D, Carlos  y  GODOY R, M. Adela. EVALUATION OF NUTRITIONAL SUPPORT TO PEDIATRIC PATIENTS HOSPITALIZED DUE TO SEVERE ILLNESSES. Rev. chil. nutr. [online]. 2007, vol.34, n.2, pp. 117-124. ISSN 0717-7518.  doi: 10.4067/S0717-75182007000200003.

Introduction: Children admitted to a Hospital due to severe illnesses have an increased risk of wasting, complications and of prolonged stays at the hospital. Objective: To evaluate the nutritional status and the nutritional support provided to children with severe non-critical illnesses during their stay at a pediatric hospital. Subjects and method: One hundred and twenty three children consecutively admitted to a Pediatric Department of a public hospital were followed up during their stay. A nutritional assessment was prospectively performed on admission and after 5 days. The nutrient intakes were evaluated by direct observation and weighing the foods administered and rejected by children. Results: Malnutrition was found in 46% of children, including 10% of wasting, 11% overweight and 33% with a normal nutritional status. Twenty percent of children covered their energy requirements with enteral feeding, 42% with oral feedings and 21% with oral plus enteral feeding. Among those who partially covered their energy requirements, 19% received only intravenous glucose solutions. Mean protein intake was 1.1 ± 0.7 g/Kg (P%= 8.9 ± 3,3). Conclusions: A low proportion of children hospitalized due to severe non-critical illnesses cover their energy and protein requirements. More adequate energy intakes were provided by enteral feedings alone or by oral and enteral feedings

Palabras clave : Nutrient intake; malnutrition; nutritional support; severe illnesses; children.