Enteral feeding: a change in practice.

There is an unacceptably high incidence of malnutrition in PICU. The delivery of nutritional support requires a structured approach. Early enteral feeding has been shown to reduce the stress response. Implementing a change in practice involves identification of resources, objectives and motivation for change. A randomised retrospective audit of the change in practice did demonstrate the value of earlier commencement of enteral feeding. Informal interviews with practitioners suggested improved practice and knowledge.