The Enteral Feeding Calculator is an essential tool for healthcare professionals and caregivers. It simplifies the complex task of calculating the nutritional needs of patients undergoing enteral feeding. By inputting basic patient information such as age, weight, height, and activity level, the calculator provides an estimate of the basal metabolic rate (BMR) and total energy expenditure (TEE). These estimates are crucial for tailoring enteral nutrition solutions that meet the individual needs of patients, ensuring they receive the right amount of calories, proteins, and other nutrients necessary for their health and recovery.
Formula of Enteral Feeding Calculator
The calculator uses specific formulas to estimate the BMR for males and females:
For males: BMR = 88.362 + (13.397 * weight in kg) + (4.799 * height in cm) - (5.677 * age in years)
For females: BMR = 447.593 + (9.247 * weight in kg) + (3.098 * height in cm) - (4.330 * age in years)
Once the BMR is calculated, it can be adjusted for activity level to estimate the TEE:
Sedentary (little to no exercise): BMR * 1.2Lightly active (light exercise/sports 1-3 days/week): BMR * 1.375Moderately active (moderate exercise/sports 3-5 days/week): BMR * 1.55Very active (hard exercise/sports 6-7 days a week): BMR * 1.725Extra active (very hard exercise/sports & physical job or 2x training): BMR * 1.9
Table for General Terms
To facilitate easy access and understanding, below is a table that provides general terms often searched by users. This reference aims to assist users in making informed decisions without the need for complex calculations every time.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| BMR | Basal Metabolic Rate - the amount of energy expended while at rest in a neutrally temperate environment. |
| TEE | Total Energy Expenditure - the total amount of energy used by the body in a day, including all physical activities. |
| Enteral Feeding | Providing nutrients directly into the digestive system via a tube, when oral intake is inadequate or impossible. |
This table serves as a quick reference to understand key concepts related to enteral feeding and nutritional calculations.
Example of Enteral Feeding Calculator
Consider a 35-year-old female patient, weighing 70 kg and 165 cm tall, with a sedentary lifestyle. Using the provided formulas, her BMR would be calculated as follows:
BMR = 447.593 + (9.247 * 70) + (3.098 * 165) - (4.330 * 35) = 1,447.7 calories/day
To estimate her TEE based on a sedentary activity level:
TEE = BMR * 1.2 = 1,447.7 * 1.2 = 1,737.24 calories/day
This calculation indicates the total calorie needs per day for this patient, providing a foundational guideline for her enteral nutrition plan.
Most Common FAQs
A1: Yes, the calculator is designed to estimate nutritional needs for a wide range of patients. However, individual assessments by healthcare professionals are essential for accurate nutrition planning.
A2: Recalculation should occur whenever there is a significant change in a patient's condition, weight, activity level, or overall health status.
A3: While the calculator provides a general guideline, pediatric patients have unique nutritional needs. Consult a pediatric nutrition specialist for tailored advice.