Management of the Patient With Refeeding Syndrome

Refeeding syndrome is a metabolic complication that can occur when nutrition is reintroduced for patients who are severely malnourished. This syndrome can occur with any form of nutrition (oral, enteral, or parenteral), and it is fatal if not recognized and treated properly. This article discusses the body's adaptation to starvation, the pathophysiology and risk factors of refeeding syndrome, and the pharmacologic treatment of complications that threaten the lives of patients who experience this disorder. Additionally, this article discusses standards of care to ensure the early recognition of patients at risk for refeeding syndrome and the nursing considerations that can be implemented to prevent it.