Case Study Questions
Forty-three-year-old Joseph Delgado is an electrician for a utility company. His medical history is unremarkable, with no problems. He is admitted to the ICU (intensive care unit) with severe electrical burns to his hands, arms, and chest (20 to 30% of body surface area).
-What is the main nutritional goal for Joseph?

Question

Case Study Questions  
Forty-three-year-old Joseph Delgado is an electrician for a utility company. His medical history is unremarkable, with no problems. He is admitted to the ICU (intensive care unit) with severe electrical burns to his hands, arms, and chest (20 to 30% of body surface area).
-What is the main nutritional goal for Joseph?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The main nutritional goal for Joseph would be to achieve nitrogen balance and minimize tissue losses due to the extensive burns. Nitrogen balance refers to the balance between nitrogen intake and output, where intake of nitrogen should match the output. In order to achieve nitrogen balance, Joseph's protein and energy needs should be met. Protein is crucial for tissue repair and wound healing, while energy is required for metabolism and reducing muscle breakdown. Therefore, it is important for Joseph to consume an adequate amount of protein and calories to minimize tissue losses and promote recovery. Increasing intake to a specific percentage of meals or promoting gluconeogenesis or tyrosine production are not the primary goals in this case.