Increased Caloric Intake Linked to Bloodstream Infections in Patients on Parenteral Nutrition
Author Information
Author(s): Disanaike Sharmila, Shelton Marilyn, Warner Keir, O'Keefe Grant E
Primary Institution: Harborview Medical Center
Hypothesis
Patients developing bloodstream infections (BSI) while receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) have higher blood glucose concentrations and receive more calories intravenously than patients who do not develop BSI.
Conclusion
Increased parenteral caloric intake is an independent risk factor for bloodstream infections in patients receiving TPN, unrelated to hyperglycemia.
Supporting Evidence
- 39% of patients developed at least one bloodstream infection.
- Patients with BSI received more parenteral calories than those without BSI.
- ICU patients had a higher incidence of BSI compared to those in general wards.
Takeaway
Giving too many calories through IV can make patients sick with infections, even if their blood sugar levels are okay.
Methodology
Two hundred consecutive patients on TPN were studied, collecting data on demographics, caloric intake, and incidence of BSI.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in calorie counting and patient selection.
Limitations
The study was observational and did not control for all potential confounding factors.
Participant Demographics
Patients included both male and female adults, with a significant portion being critically ill.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.003
Confidence Interval
1.2–2.1
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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