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Wounds

Wound care continues to be an economic burden on the U.S. healthcare system with an annual cost of more than $26 billion. With an aging population and rising prevalence of diabetes and obesity, this burden is likely to increase.1  

Nutrition & Wounds

The process of wound healing is a metabolically demanding process. Give your at risk patients or those with existing pressure injuries the specialized nutrition they need. This may include:  

  • Adequate calories—Approximately 30 to 35 kcal/kg/day  
  • High protein—Approximately 1.25 to 1.5 g protein/kg/day  
  • Vitamins and minerals—Supplements should be given when deficiencies are demonstrated or suspected  
  • Adequate fluid—1 mL/kcal (adjust as needed) 
  • Supplemental L-arginine, zinc and antioxidants—Pressure Injury Stage 2 or greater2

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References

1. Padula, W., Delarmente, B. A. (2019). The national cost of hospital-acquired pressure injuries in the United States. International Wound Journal. https://doi.org/10.1111/iwj.1307
2. EPUAP, NPIAP & PPPIA. Prevention and Treatment Pressure Ulcers/Injuries: Quick Reference Guide. Emily Haesler (Ed.). EPUAP/NPIAP/PPPIA: 2019.