Nutrition strategies in neurotrauma.

A basic understanding of metabolic alterations that occur following neurotrauma is essential for addressing nutritional requirements. Interventions must be research based and must focus on the support of metabolic alterations, minimizing the effect of catabolism and optimizing caloric delivery to meet metabolic demand. The goal of accuracy in the delivery of nutritional support is to ensure a reduction in patient morbidity. Nutritional support requires an ongoing, daily assessment of caloric goals, protein requirements, patient responses, and assessment of nutritional laboratory values. Using this strategy, neurotrauma patients will have the greatest opportunity for a positive outcome.