The influence of parenteral protein intake on electrolyte disturbances in premature infants.

Introduction: Aggressive parenteral nutrition with delivery of high amino acid and energy doses is used to improve growth and neurodevelopmental outcomes in very low birth weight (VLBW) preterm infants. Recent findings, however, suggest that this approach may cause electrolyte imbalances. The aim of our study was to compare the prevalence of hypercalcaemia, hypophosphataemia, and hypokalaemia in 2 groups of preterm infants that received parenteral nutrition with different amounts of amino acids and to analyse perinatal and nutritional variables associated with the development of electrolyte imbalances.

Early Initiation of Renal Replacement Therapy in Pediatric Heart Surgery Is Associated with Lower Mortality.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is frequent in the postoperative period of pediatric heart surgery and leads to significant morbidity and mortality. Renal replacement therapies (RRTs) are often used to treat AKI; however, these therapies have also been associated with higher mortality rates. Earlier initiation of RRT might improve outcomes.