Abstract

Infants admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) often face intricate challenges related to nutrition and growth. Their unique vulnerabilities stemming from prematurity and medical complexities necessitate a comprehensive understanding of their nutritional status and growth patterns. Objectives: This cross-sectional analysis sought to investigate the nutritional status and growth patterns of 200 infants admitted to a well-established NICU. The primary objectives were to assess their nutritional status, analyze growth trends, and identify potential correlations between nutritional markers and growth parameters. Materials & Methodology: A diverse cohort of 200 infants, encompassing varying gestational ages and medical conditions, was included in this study. Nutritional status was evaluated through rigorous dietary intake records and essential biochemical markers. Simultaneously, growth patterns were analyzed using anthropometric measurements and compared against established growth standards. Statistical analyses were employed to unveil potential associations between specific nutritional markers and growth parameters. Results: This comprehensive analysis revealed a broad spectrum of nutritional statuses among the 200 NICU infants. Variability was influenced by factors such as gestational age, birth weight, and underlying medical complexities. Growth patterns displayed a wide range, reflecting the dynamic interplay of NICU-specific variables. Importantly, correlations between distinct nutritional markers and growth parameters were identified, offering insights into areas for tailored interventions and personalized care. Conclusion: This cross-sectional analysis, involving a sample size of 200 NICU infants, has provided invaluable insights into their nutritional status and growth patterns. The results underscore the necessity for personalized nutritional care within the NICU setting, emphasizing individualized care plans that consider unique characteristics and medical conditions. Furthermore, the study highlights the intricate factors impacting growth patterns among NICU infants, paving the way for future research to enhance care practices and improve long-term outcomes for these vulnerable infants.

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