Enteral and parenteral nutrition considerations in pediatric patients

Purpose. Current clinical practice guidelines on management of enteral nutrition (EN) and parenteral nutrition (PN) in pediatric patients are reviewed. Summary. The provision of EN and PN in pediatric patients poses many unique considerations and challenges. Although indications for use of EN and PN are similar in adult and pediatric populations, recommended EN and PN practices differ for pediatric versus adult patients in areas such as selection of EN and PN formulations, timing of EN and PN initiation, advancement of nutrition support, and EN and PN goals. Additionally, provision of EN and PN to pediatric patients poses unique compounding and medication administration challenges. This article provides a review of current EN and PN best practices and special nutrition considerations for neonates, infants, and other pediatric patients. Conclusion. The provision of EN and PN to pediatric patients presents many unique challenges. It is important for pharmacists to keep current with pediatric- and neonatal-specific guidelines on nutritional management of various disease states, as well as strategies to address compounding and medication administration challenges, in order to optimize EN and PN outcomes.