A survey of parenteral nutrition programs

Area of Science:

• Pharmacy Practice
• Clinical Pharmacy
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Parenteral nutrition (PN) is a critical supportive therapy for patients unable to receive adequate nutrition orally.
• The role of pharmacists in optimizing PN therapy and ensuring patient safety is well-established.
• Understanding the current landscape of PN programs in Canadian hospitals is essential for identifying areas of practice advancement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current status of parenteral nutrition (PN) programs within Canadian hospitals.
• To gather data on the prevalence of PN committees, multidisciplinary PN teams, and the involvement of PN pharmacists.
• To evaluate the functional environment and practices associated with PN programs in Canadian healthcare settings.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire survey was distributed to pharmacy directors in a random sample of 100 Canadian hospitals.
• Data were collected on the existence and structure of PN committees and teams, pharmacist roles, and laboratory monitoring practices.
• Response rates and the characteristics of hospitals with and without PN programs were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Of 74 responding hospitals, 67 reported having established PN programs.
• PN protocols were approved in 85% of hospitals, and PN committees were present in 60%.
• Multidisciplinary PN teams, including pharmacists, were noted in 10 hospitals, with most facilities requiring routine laboratory tests for PN patients, though only 34% utilized standardized monitoring forms.

Conclusions:

• Canadian hospital pharmacists have demonstrated progress in the provision of parenteral nutrition (PN) services.
• Significant opportunities exist for expanding pharmacist involvement in the clinical aspects of PN therapy, including patient monitoring and protocol development.
• Further integration of pharmacists into multidisciplinary PN teams can enhance the quality and safety of PN therapy in Canada.