[A descriptive analysis of the use of the parenteral nutrition protocol in an area hospital]

A retrospective study was carried out of all the Parenteral Nutrient Units (PNUs) prepared in the Pharmacy Service (PS) of an Area Hospital with 378 beds, over a four-year term (1988-1991), with the aim of describing the use of Parenteral Nutrition (PN) and to find out to what level it is adjusted to the established methodology. PN start and finish records were used to compile a variety of data: number of patients, age, sex, diet, days PN treatment, indication and motive for cessation. The results obtained are grouped by years and services. PN patients numbered 272 in all: most were in the surgery service (47%) followed by ICU (32%) and internal medicine (17%). 2.651 PNUs were prepared during the four years studied: 97.5% were adult diet, days PN treatment, indication and motive for cessation. The results obtained are grouped by years and services. PN patients numbered 272 in all: most were in the surgical service (47%) followed by ICU (32%) and internal medicine (17%). 2.651 PNUs were prepared during the four years studied: 97.5% were adult 84.6% of PNUs prepared were in line with the established methodology. Of the 398 individually formulated diets prepared, 74.6% were not considered justified. A 140% raise was observed in the number of patients undergoing PN after 4 years. In the light of these results, we consider that the parenteral diet code should be updated.