1. Complications are 2-20 times greater in malnourished patients compared to well-nourished patients. Nutritional status can range from normal to borderline to malnourished.
2. Guidelines for initiating specialized nutrition support involve assessing nutritional status and determining if the gastrointestinal tract is functional. Enteral nutrition is preferred if the GI tract is intact. Parenteral nutrition is used if the GI tract is compromised.
3. Total parenteral nutrition involves supplying glucose, lipids, electrolytes, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids intravenously. The amounts supplied depend on factors like a patient's weight, medical condition, and nutritional requirements. Maintaining appropriate fluid and nutrient levels is important for recovery.