Quiz on Refeeding Syndrome Guidelines

What is the primary aim of the guidelines for Refeeding Syndrome?

• To reduce hospital stay duration

• To establish a consensus on identification and management

• To promote dietary supplements

• To provide financial guidance

Answer explanation

The primary aim of the guidelines for Refeeding Syndrome is to establish a consensus on identification and management, ensuring that healthcare providers can effectively recognize and treat this condition.

Who has overall responsibility for the provision of nutrition within East Cheshire NHS Trust?

• Dietitians

• Executive Director of Nursing

• Ward Pharmacists

• Clinical Nutrition Steering Group

Answer explanation

The Executive Director of Nursing has overall responsibility for nutrition within East Cheshire NHS Trust, ensuring that nutritional care is integrated into patient care across the organization.

What is a significant risk factor for Refeeding Syndrome?

• Regular nutritional intake

• BMI less than 25 kg/m²

• Unintentional weight loss greater than 15% in the last 3-6 months

• High potassium levels

Answer explanation

Unintentional weight loss greater than 15% in the last 3-6 months indicates a significant risk for Refeeding Syndrome, as it suggests malnutrition and a potential metabolic imbalance when reintroducing nutrition.

What should be prescribed before starting nutritional support in patients at risk?

• Thiamine

• Vitamin D

• Calcium

• Iron supplements

Answer explanation

Thiamine should be prescribed before starting nutritional support in at-risk patients to prevent Wernicke's encephalopathy, a serious condition associated with thiamine deficiency, especially in those with malnutrition.

What is the maximum calorie provision for patients at high risk during the first days of feeding?

• 20 kcals/kg

• 10 kcals/kg

• 100 kcals/kg

• 50% of requirements

Answer explanation

The maximum calorie provision for patients at high risk during the initial feeding days is 10 kcals/kg. This conservative approach helps prevent refeeding syndrome and allows for safe nutritional support.

Which electrolyte levels should be monitored daily during the first 10 days of feeding?

• Vitamin A, B12, and D

• Iron, Zinc, and Copper

• Potassium, Magnesium, and Phosphate

• Sodium, Calcium, and Chloride

Answer explanation

During the first 10 days of feeding, monitoring potassium, magnesium, and phosphate is crucial due to their roles in metabolic processes and potential imbalances that can occur with nutritional support.

What is the recommended oral thiamine dosage for patients at risk?

• 50 mg once daily

• 100 mg twice daily

• 200 mg three times daily

• 300 mg once daily

Answer explanation

The recommended oral thiamine dosage for patients at risk is 100 mg twice daily, as this dosage effectively supports those with increased needs, such as those with alcohol use disorder or malabsorption issues.

What is a potential consequence of unmanaged Refeeding Syndrome?

• Weight gain

• Fluid overload and cardiac failure

• Increased appetite

• Improved cognitive function

Answer explanation

Unmanaged Refeeding Syndrome can lead to fluid overload and cardiac failure due to rapid shifts in electrolytes and fluid balance, making this the most serious potential consequence.

What should be done if electrolyte levels fall during feeding?

• Ignore the levels

• Supplement electrolytes before advancing feeding

• Increase feeding rate

• Discontinue feeding immediately

Answer explanation

If electrolyte levels fall during feeding, it is crucial to supplement electrolytes before advancing feeding to prevent complications. Ignoring the levels or increasing the feeding rate could worsen the situation.

Which professional group is responsible for assessing a patient's risk of Refeeding Syndrome?

• Ward Managers

• Pharmacists

• Dietitians

• Medical Staff

Answer explanation

Dietitians are specifically trained to assess nutritional needs and risks, including Refeeding Syndrome, which occurs when feeding is restarted in malnourished patients. Their expertise is crucial in managing this risk.