Abstract O-29: ENTERAL PROTEIN SUPPLEMENTATION IN CRITICALLY ILL CHILDREN: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED PILOT STUDY

Abstract

Aims & Objectives: Protein supplementation may be associated with improved clinical outcomes in critically ill children. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and tolerance of protein supplementation, and its impact on clinical outcomes in critically ill children on enteral nutrition (EN). Methods Pilot, three-arm, controlled trial in critically ill children. Children on mechanic ventilation and on EN therapy were randomized to one of 2 interventional groups; polymeric and oligomeric protein supplementation, or control group receiving standard nutritional therapy. In the interventional groups, the protein supplement was administered to reach the prescribed protein goal by Day 4. Demographic characteristics and clinical outcomes were recorded. EN interruptions, increase in stool frequency and abdominal distension were evaluated as signs of intolerance of the intervention. Blood urea and creatinine values were recorded. Results Among 363 patients admitted, 70 were eligible, and 34 were. At baseline there were no differences between the groups (Table 1). The number of EN interruption and ≥3 defecations/day were similar between groups. Abdominal distension was present in 30% of the control, 12.5% of the polymeric and 0% of the oligomeric group. There were no increases in serum urea and creatinine values in all 3 groups. There were no differences in clinical outcomes between the 3 groups (Table 2).Conclusions Enteral protein supplementation with oligomeric or polymeric modules is safe and well tolerated in critically ill children. Multicenter study with larger sample size is necessary to examine the impact of protein supplementation on clinical outcomes. Trial registration: Brazilian Registry of Clinical Trials n°RBR-3h4x97