This prospective, observational study evaluates whether serum bicarbonate HCO3 levels can predict enteral nutrition intolerance (EFI) in adult ICU patients.Objective: To determine if lower HCO3 levels correlate with the development of EFI.Design: A 12-month study involving 70 participants at Sultangazi Haseki Training and Research Hospital.Methodology: Patients starting enteral nutrition within 48 hours of admission will be monitored for 72 hours. Daily HCo3 pH, and lactate levels will be recorded from routine morning blood draws.Hypothesis: Lower bicarbonate levels are an independent predictor of EFI development in critically ill patients.
Adult patients aged 18 and older.
Patients started on enteral nutrition (EN) within the first 48 hours of their intensive care unit admission.
Patients predicted to remain in the intensive care unit for at least 72 hours.
Patients (or their legal representatives) who have provided consent to participate in the study.
Patients under the age of 18.Individuals who are currently pregnant or breastfeeding.
Patients with gastrointestinal (GI) perforation, active GI bleeding, or mechanical bowel obstruction.
Patients who have undergone major abdominal surgery (e.g., esophagectomy, gastrectomy) within the last month.
Patients receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN) or those who are only fed orally.