Abstract Introduction: Specialized enteral formulae feeding provided by the use of scientific formula feeds is considered costly, and the cost is very important factor in Indian ICU. The aim of this study is to evaluate the cost of enteral formulae feeding in critically ill patients in a tertiary care center and to correlate the cost to the severity of illness and LOS of patients in ICU. Methodology: An Observational study was performed on2748 patients admitted to ICU of S.L Raheja Hospital over a period of 3 years who were completely fed over formula feeds which was determined by iNutrimon Software. The feeding data were extracted from the patient file record and were analyzed. Result: Overall results indicated that the average cost of scientific feeding formulae was 749 INR (10.77 U.S.Dollars)/day. THE average LOS for the entire population during the study period was 4.84 days. If the LOS was greater than 5 days the cost of formulae feeding was 325 INR (4.67 U.S.Dollars)/day and if LOS was less than or equal to 5 days the cost was 826 INR (11.88 U.S.Dollars/day. Conclusion: Lesser the number of days the patient stays in the ICU more is the cost of scientific formula feeding. Howsoever the cost of feeding per day is much lesser than the cost of many others like antibiotics in the ICU. Introduction The benefits of enteral nutrition are very well known such as reduced incidence of pneumonia and intra-abdominal infections by reinforcing gut immunocompetence with their direct effect in promoting MALT (Mucosa Associated Lymphoid Tissue) thus producing IgA antibodies, reduced cost by reducing the length of stay, lesser chances of infection (associated with parenteral nutrition) and avoidance of central line-associated complications [1,2]. In India and many other Asian countries, specialized enteral feeding can be provided by the use of blenderized…
Cost of Enteral Formulae Feed in Critically Ill Patients in a Tertiary Care Centre: An Observational Study from India
January 15, 2021 | 0 Comment