Continuous Versus Bolus Dietary Protein and Nutrition Status in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit: Pilot Study

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating how different ways of giving dietary protein affect nutrition markers like weight and muscle mass in critically ill children aged 1 to 11 years. The study aims to see if giving protein in bolus doses reduces the loss of mid-upper arm circumference compared to continuous delivery, and whether this method better meets daily protein needs. This pilot study is conducted in a pediatric intensive care unit setting with careful monitoring and data collection. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one receiving protein continuously mixed into enteral formula around the clock, and the other receiving supplemental protein as bolus doses every 4 hours alongside continuous formula feeding. Both groups will get the same amount of protein, aiming for 1 gram per kilogram per day of supplemental protein in addition to standard enteral nutrition. The intervention starts within the first few days of admission and lasts as long as the patient meets study criteria. Children in the study will have their nutrition intake tracked daily and undergo body composition assessments including weight, mid-upper arm circumference, and ultrasound measurements of thigh muscle at admission and on days 3, 5, 7, and 14 post-intervention start. Researchers will monitor changes over time and any significant clinical events to understand protein delivery effects and ensure data accuracy. The study includes follow-ups for up to two weeks with ongoing data analysis to evaluate outcomes.

Continuous vs Bolus Protein (Protein Regimen Outcomes) in Critically Ill Children (Kids In Distress)