Parenteral Nutrition and Its Impact on Clinical Outcomes in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: John A. Smith, Emily R. Johnson, Michael T. Brown, Sarah L. Davis
Background: Parenteral nutrition (PN) is a life-saving intervention for critically ill patients who cannot tolerate enteral feeding. However, its impact on clinical outcomes remains debated. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 1,200 ICU patients who received PN for at least 7 days. Outcomes included mortality, length of stay, and infectious complications. Results: PN was associated with a 15% reduction in 30-day mortality (adjusted OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.72-0.99) and a 2-day reduction in ICU length of stay. However, PN increased the risk of bloodstream infections (HR 1.3, 95% CI 1.1-1.6). Conclusion: PN is associated with improved survival and shorter ICU stay, but careful monitoring for infections is essential.
