Perfil de pacientes hospitalizados em terapia nutricional enteral

Abstract

Objective: to evaluate the sociodemographic and clinical profiles of patients undergoing enteral nutrition therapy in a high-complexity institution. Method: a quantitative, descriptive, observational, and cross-sectional study was carried out. Data from patients on enteral nutrition therapy over seven months were analyzed, considering sociodemographic and clinical variables and the diet's infusion route. Descriptive statistical analyzes of absolute, relative, and average frequencies were performed. Results: it was registered that 614 patients used the therapy, of which 55.0% were male, and 39.9% were older than 60 years. The most prevalent clinical diagnoses varied according to age groups, with an emphasis on cancer (25.2%). The predominant infusion route was the nasojejunal tube (78.6%). Conclusion: it is understood that enteral nutrition therapy was necessary for all age groups and several clinical diagnoses, mainly for the elderly and patients on cancer treatment. The findings contribute to care planning and nursing knowledge.