Latest Update
What lab values can be measured for nutritional status? Blood glucose, albumin, pre-
albumin, urea level, creatinine level, globulin level, and transferrin level.
Which is the BEST lab value to determine nutritional status? Pre-albumin because it has a
shorter half life than albumin.
What are some interventions for nausea? Peppermint/Ginger candy
Ice chips, popsicles, frozen fruit, sorbet
Removal of offensive odors
Cool or carbonated beverage
Nothing by mouth for 30 min-then clear liquids
Bland foods, Cold foods
Small frequent meals
What is enteral feeding? Nutrients delivered to G.I. Tract via feeding tube. Placed using
direct visualization during surgery.
What is parenteral feeding? Nutrients delivered via central line intravenously. Nutrients
bypass G.I. tract for when a patient can not tolerate food in their stomach. Placed using chest x-
ray.
What are some interventions for tube feeding? Check tube for residual volume (less than
150mL)
Check glucose, pre-albumin, etc. levels
Check height/weight
Check bowel sounds
Check inout/output levels
, When do you flush a nasogastric tube? Before and After feeding
Before and After medication is administered
Flush with sterile water
What are some interventions for impaired swallowing and risk for aspiration? No straws
Cut food in small pieces
Check mouth for pocketing
Keep suction nearby
Monitor breathing and coughing
Have patient sit with forward flexion (chin tuck)
Keep patient upright 90 degrees during and after eating for 45 min
What dietary considerations are there for vegetarians and vegans? Must work to obtain
protein, calcium, and Vitamin B-12 intake that they would normally get from animal sources.
What nutrition concerns are there for alcoholism? Poor appetite leading to decreased food
intake and nutrients. Alcohol decreases the function of some vitamins.
What are dietary concerns with a patient who has anemia? Anemia causes fatigue which can
lead to the inability to prepare nutritious foods. Iron and folate intake should be increased.
Dietary needs of a person who is of child-bearing age or pregnant? Increase folic acid,
calcium, protein.
What diet is recommended for patients with high cholesterol? Low fat/low cholesterol diet