Investigating key factors of feeding intolerance in sepsis: A scoping review

At present, domestic and international research on the current status of feeding intolerance in septicemia patients only stops at the study of influencing factors; however, due to the specificity of the disease, the influencing factors are numerous and controversial.

To systematically analyse the studies related to the occurrence of feeding intolerance in patients with sepsis, to find out the influencing factors of feeding intolerance in these patients and to provide a reference for nursing staff to develop relevant interventions.

The study employed Arksey and O'Malley's methodology to carry out a scoping review. We conducted a systematic search, using the scoping review as a framework, for relevant Chinese and English literature on factors influencing feeding intolerance in patients with sepsis in China Knowledge Network, Wanfang, CINAHL, Pubmed, Web of Science and Google Scholar, covering a time frame from construction to 1 September 2024. We identified research questions, completed literature screening and quality assessment, extracted data and summarized and analysed the data.

The review included a total of 13 papers. Factors influencing feeding intolerance in septicemia patients included patient factors, disease factors, biochemical indicators, feeding determinants, clinical treatment and drug effects.

Factors affecting feeding intolerance in patients with sepsis are multifaceted. We should develop individualized care plans based on relevant risk factors to improve feeding tolerance and shorten hospital stays in patients with sepsis.

In order to improve the ability of ICU nurses to identify the risk factors of feeding intolerance in patients with sepsis, it is recommended to conduct systematic training on the pathophysiology of sepsis, influencing factors of feeding intolerance and intervention measures and assist nurses to implement appropriate intervention measures.