Results of the implementation of a nutritional support protocol for major burn pediatric patients hospitalized in the...

"Major burn" is used to describe a person who suffers thermal damage affecting more than 30% of his/her total body surface area (TBSA). The secondary hypercatabolism causes lean body mass loss and delayed wound healing.

To describe and analyze the results of implementing a nutritional support protocol for pediatric burn patients hospitalized in the intensive care unit in the first 6 weeks.

Analytical, prospective, observational, and longitudinal design. Weight, height, %TBSA, length of stay in the intensive care unit, and mortality were measured. The basal metabolic rate was measured by indirect calorimetry and the Schofield equation, and protein and energy intake, prealbumin, C-reactive protein, vitamins A, D, E, copper, and zinc levels were analyzed every week.

Eighteen patients were included (mean: 3.9 years old, 49%TBSA). The mean energy target was achieved by week 2 and protein requirements were met by week 6. Twelve patients required complementary parenteral nutrition and there were no complications. Hypermetabolism parameters were observed, which returned to normal 4-6 weeks after hospitalization, except for C-reactive protein. Vitamins A and E and trace elements (zinc and copper) were reduced at the time of admission and showed a subsequent improvement. Vitamin D remained low. One patient died.

Implementing the protocol was useful to cover the total energy requirement; the coverage of protein requirements was delayed until week 6. It is necessary to focus on solving limitations to achieve the latter.