Authors

  1. Westfal, Sandi MS, RD, CNSC, CDN
  2. Burrowes, Jerrilynn D. PhD, RD, CDN
  3. Shorter, Barbara EdD, RD, CDN
  4. Wright, Josephine MS, RD, CDN

Abstract

This study surveyed medical residents about their perceived attitudes, knowledge, and practice in the delivery of enteral nutrition (EN) in the critical care setting. An e-mail survey was sent to 693 medical residents; 56 completed the survey for a response rate of 8.7%. Descriptive statistics were used to compare survey responses. Medical residents reported inadequacies in their knowledge of EN despite the fact that 98% agreed that nutrition support in critical care is important. Data analysis also revealed discrepancies between attitude, knowledge, and practice in prescribing EN therapy in the critical care setting. In addition, almost all residents (95%) agreed that a standardized EN feeding protocol should be used.