to consume solid foods or the daily requirement of protein because of pain or nausea. Therefore, substitute intravenous fluids and nutrients in order for the patient to receive the required amount of protein.

Protein-calorie deficiency is a definite factor in postoperative wound disruption. This disruption can best be prevented by preemptive nutritional measures before surgery. Antibody production will be decreased if the patient receives inadequate protein.

The daily recommended intake of proteins for adult patients is at least .8 g/kg of body weight (approximately 56 g). A high protein diet should provide a minimum of 1.5 g of protein per kg of body weight (approximately 105 g). The seriously burned and radiation injury patients should receive at least 187.5 g daily.

Supplement the regular diet with high quality protein foods, such as meat, fish, fowl, cheese, milk, and eggs, as listed in table 3-2.

Table 3-2.-Sample High Calorie—High Protein Diet