Total parenteral nutrition by a nutrition support team: improved quality of care

Most of the studies that have examined the effect of nutrition support teams (NST) on the quality of total parenteral nutrition (TPN) have found reductions in the frequency of metabolic and central venous catheter related complications. Previous studies have not examined the patterns of nutrient delivery (eg, calories and protein) when TPN is provided either by a primary physician or by a NST. We compared the quality of TPN care provided by our NST or by primary physicians utilizing nonspecialized hospital personnel and resources. As expected, catheter complications were significantly less frequent in NST patients. Assessment of nutritional status and nutrient requirements as well as nitrogen balance were performed and documented significantly more often in NST patients. In addition, nutritional goals for calories and protein were achieved and positive nitrogen balance documented more often in NST patients. The need to consult the NST physician to utilize the NST was not well received by primary attending and resident physicians and resulted in nonuse of the team. In the future, modification of NST policies will be explored to encourage greater utilization of the NST without compromising the high standard of nutrition care delivered by the NST.