title: Nutritional assessment of the patient in the intensive care unit.
abstract: Early identification and treatment of malnutrition in hospitalized patients remain important aspects of care, especially in critically ill patients. Thorough knowledge of a patient's nutritional history, physical assessment and clinical laboratory findings are critical in order to accurately determine the degree of malnutrition, if present, as well as metabolic energy needs. The nurse plays a vital role in gathering this valuable clinical information. Although there is no single test to determine malnutrition, the utilization of a complete nutritional assessment is the best tool to properly identify and treat malnutrition.
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Gianino
authors.forename: R E
authors.initials: RE
authors.lastname: St John
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000886:Anthropometry; D016638:Critical Illness; D004734:Energy Metabolism; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D015596:Nutrition Assessment; D009751:Nutritional Requirements