BACKGROUND: Clinical manifestations of nutrient deficiencies are often overlooked by practitioners caring for patients receiving home nutritional therapies. METHODS: Literature review was conducted placing priority on identifying practical history and physical examination elements that may represent clinical manifestations of nutrient deficiency. RESULTS: Summary tables are presented that highlight key history and physical examination elements. CONCLUSIONS: Appropriate care of the patient receiving home enteral or parenteral nutrition therapies requires routine surveillance of these elements.
BACKGROUND: Clinical manifestations of nutrient deficiencies are often overlooked by practitioners caring for patients receiving home nutritional therapies. METHODS: Literature review was conducted placing priority on identifying practical history and physical examination elements that may represent clinical manifestations of nutrient deficiency. RESULTS: Summary tables are presented that highlight key history and physical examination elements. CONCLUSIONS: Appropriate care of the patient receiving home enteral or parenteral nutrition therapies requires routine surveillance of these elements.