COMPLICATIONS AND RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH PROLONGED PARENTERAL NUTRITION IN PEDIATRIC AND NEONATAL ICU PATIENTS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Objective: The general objective of the present study is to analyze the scientific evidence on the complications and risks associated with prolonged parenteral nutrition in pediatric and neonatal patients in intensive care units (ICU), in order to ensure greater knowledge about this therapeutic practice and its clinical implications. Methodology: Searches were carried out through searches in the PubMed Central (PMC) databases. Three descriptors were used in combination with the Boolean term "AND": Parenteral Nutrition, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and Risk Factors. A total of 101 articles were found, which were subsequently submitted to the selection criteria. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 20 studies were selected, of which 10 articles were used for detailed analysis. Results: Parenteral nutrition (PN) is essential in the care of preterm infants and critically ill pediatric patients. However, it is associated with several potential complications, including hepatobiliary, infectious, mechanical, and metabolic problems like hyperglycemia and hypertriglyceridemia. The administration of PN requires careful planning and strict safety policies to minimize risks and maximize clinical benefits. Prolonged PN can lead to serious complications such as catheter-associated bloodstream infections, cholestasis, and liver dysfunction. Conclusion: Prolonged PN in pediatric and neonatal patients in ICUs is associated with significant risks that require close surveillance and preventive interventions. Continuous monitoring of glucose, triglycerides, and liver function levels, as well as rigorous infection control practices, is crucial to ensure the safety and efficacy of PN. Further studies are needed to identify management strategies that can reduce these complications and improve clinical outcomes.