Summary
This randomised controlled trial, conducted across UK critical care units, examined whether intermittent feeding protocols preserve muscle mass more effectively than continuous feeding in critically ill patients. As suggested by the title and authorship, the study addresses a clinically significant question about optimal nutritional delivery timing during critical illness, where muscle wasting is a major driver of morbidity and prolonged recovery. The findings contribute to evidence on intensive care unit nutrition management practices.
UK applicability
Directly applicable to UK critical care practice and guidelines (NICE, UK ICU nutrition protocols). Results would inform feeding protocols across NHS intensive care units and other acute hospital settings.
Key measures
Muscle mass (as assessed by imaging or anthropometry), muscle wasting indices, functional outcomes, nutritional intake tolerance, length of critical illness
Outcomes reported
The study compared intermittent versus continuous enteral feeding regimens and their effects on muscle mass loss and physical outcomes in critically ill patients. Muscle wasting, functional recovery, and nutritional tolerance were likely measured as primary outcomes.
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