What is the approximate daily protein range (in g/kg/day) recommended for stressed trauma patients?

What is the approximate daily protein range (in g/kg/day) recommended for stressed trauma patients?

• A. 1.5-2.0 g/kg/day
• B. 0.5-1.0 g/kg/day
• C. 2.5-3.0 g/kg/day
• D. 3.0-4.0 g/kg/day

Answer: (A)

In a stressed trauma state, the body shifts into a hypermetabolic, catabolic mode with increased loss of lean tissue. To support wound healing, immune function, and preservation of lean mass, protein needs rise above normal dietary levels. The aim is to provide enough protein to maintain or improve nitrogen balance as energy needs are met with adequate calories. Approximately 1.5–2.0 g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day is the typical recommendation in this scenario. For a 70 kg patient, that’s about 105–140 g of protein daily. This range effectively supports tissue repair without the inefficiencies or risks that come with much higher intakes. Protein needs well above this range (for example, 2.5–4.0 g/kg/day) are not routinely needed for most stressed trauma patients and can be unnecessarily burdensome, though specific situations like extensive burns may warrant different targets. Conversely, too little protein (0.5–1.0 g/kg/day) would fail to counteract the catabolic loss. Adjust for kidney function if present.

In a stressed trauma state, the body shifts into a hypermetabolic, catabolic mode with increased loss of lean tissue. To support wound healing, immune function, and preservation of lean mass, protein needs rise above normal dietary levels. The aim is to provide enough protein to maintain or improve nitrogen balance as energy needs are met with adequate calories.

Approximately 1.5–2.0 g of protein per kilogram of body weight per day is the typical recommendation in this scenario. For a 70 kg patient, that’s about 105–140 g of protein daily. This range effectively supports tissue repair without the inefficiencies or risks that come with much higher intakes.

Protein needs well above this range (for example, 2.5–4.0 g/kg/day) are not routinely needed for most stressed trauma patients and can be unnecessarily burdensome, though specific situations like extensive burns may warrant different targets. Conversely, too little protein (0.5–1.0 g/kg/day) would fail to counteract the catabolic loss. Adjust for kidney function if present.