A head-injured patient: caloric needs, clinical progress and nursing care priorities

This case study explored literature on nursing care of the head-injured patient and identified outcomes of a head-injured patient in regard to nutritional status, skin breakdown and infection. Literature review revealed head-injured patients experience a hypermetabolism requiring increased nutritional support. Patient outcomes included mild skin breakdown, infection and a 12% loss in body weight. Inadequate nutrition was the patient's most significant outcome. The patient maintained an average daily intake of 915 calories and averaged a total energy expenditure of 2337 calories, thus, demonstrating an average daily deficit of 1422 calories. Top nursing care priorities noted in the patient's chart were: alteration in cerebral tissue perfusion, potential for injury and alteration in skin integrity. Results indicated more accurate assessment of the patient's needs and inclusion of more applicable nursing diagnoses were required to ensure greater continuity in care.