Indirect Calorimetry-Guided Parenteral Nutrition Prescribing in Oncology Patients

Comparing Measured Resting Energy Expenditure to Weight-Based Equations for Parenteral Nutrition Prescribing in Oncology Patients: A Randomized Trial

This study compares two methods of prescribing parenteral nutrition (PN) in adults with cancer who are unable to meet nutritional needs by oral or enteral intake.

This is a single-center, randomized, open-label pilot study enrolling 50 adult oncology patients requiring PN (parenteral nutrition). Participants are randomized to weight-based dosing or indirect calorimetry-guided dosing. Outcomes include feasibility, acceptability, changes in PN prescription, adverse events, quality of life, and survival.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults aged ≥18 years
• Diagnosis of cancer
• Requirement for PN ≥1 week
• Ability to provide informed consent
• English-speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

• Hospice enrollment
• Mechanical ventilation
• Chest tube or drain
• Continuous renal replacement therapy
• Supplemental oxygen