Funding outcome

Many studies have found that we cannot predict how much energy a child in the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) is needing ( energy expenditure, EE) The only way to know EE in critically ill children is using a technique called indirect calorimetry; however, this is often not available because it needs experts, takes a long time, and is expensive. Without indirect calorimetry, however, over- and under-feeding is common. Over-feeding can cause fat production, fatty liver, and faster breathing (by increasing carbon-dioxide). Under-feeding can cause malnutrition, with worse healing of wounds, immune function, and muscle strength. Developing a way to predict EE in children in the PICU would mean we could give the best amount of nutrition, and avoid underand over-feeding, without needing indirect calorimetry that is often not available. Our objectives are to determine: which patient factors can predict EE in children in the PICU; and, if over- or under-feeding results in longer time on the breathing machine or in PICU. In this study, all children in the PICU at Stollery Children's Hospital who had indirect calorimetry done (over SO children/year; about 100-120 patients over 2 years) will be included. I will record information from the patient's electronic chart and enter it into a study database, including general [sex, age, admission diagnosis]; body size; [weight, height, body mass index]; and severity of illness [vital signs, organ functions, and medications used] information. Advanced statistical methods will be used to meet the study objectives. Developing a way to predict EE may make indirect calorimetry measurements unnecessary in many patients. Showing worse outcomes from over- and underfeeding will show that nutrition research in PICU is a priority. Overall, we aim to improve outcomes for children in the PICU by optimizing the nutrition support we provide during their severe illness.