Nutrition support of pediatric patients

Abstract

Nutritional management in pediatric patients is often considered to be complex and difficult. We review the basic rationale and principles of IV nutrition support in pediatric patients. The unique differences between children and adults are outlined. The nutritional support solution is then divided into the distinct sections of energy, protein, volume, electrolytes minerals and vitamins. Each of these parts is considered separately to allow understanding in a sequential fashion. Different routes of intravenous access are also discussed to include placement, maintenance, treatment of infections and management of catheter thrombosis.