Enteral vs Parenteral Nutrition Indication Criteria

Determine appropriate nutrition route using indication criteria. Enteral nutrition (EN) is preferred whenever the GI tract is functional: start within 24-48 hours of ICU admission. Parenteral nutrition (PN) indicated when: GI tract non-functional (ileus, SBO, mesenteric ischemia), EN contraindicated (GI fistula without distal access), or EN fails to meet 60% or more of caloric targets after 3-5 days.