High Protein Intake: Effect of Level vs Feeding Site.

The recent findings from the EFFORT Protein Trial, the large, randomized trial in mechanically ventilated, nutritionally at risk patients, was a major focus of discussion at our recent Clinical Congress and has already had a major Influence on our field forcing a reevaluation of optimal feeding practices in critically ill adults (1). Contrary to expectations, providing a higher protein intake, with a clear distinction between high and low protein intake (1.6 + .5 vs. 0.9 + 0.3 g/kg), to predominantly medical patients who were fed enterally almost exclusively, produced no significant impact on the primary endpoint, time to discharge alive or the original goal 60 day mortality. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.