CLINICAL
August 2020 - October 2020
St. Luke's Hospital - Fountain Hill Campus
Bethlehem, PA
EVIDENCE BASED RESEARCH PROJECT
In pediatric patients diagnosed with epilepsy does a ketogenic diet compared to no ketogenic diet reduce the frequency of seizures?
Identified research question related to clinical nutrition outcomes using the PICO approach
Determined target audience and conducted a formal needs assessment
Conducted, outlined, and summarized literature search methods
Formatted evidenced-based responses into an evidence summary
Translated and presented findings in a professional presentation provided to the clinical dietitians at St. Lukes Hospital - Fountain Hill.
Research Conclusion Statement: After analyzing research, there is strong evidence that the KD is an effective diet therapy for decreasing the frequency of seizures in children. The majority of the research shows that on average there is a 50% decrease seizure frequency after the start of the KD and also a high number of participants that are able to become seizure free. Though it is important to note that there were several limitations observed throughout the studies such as small sample sizes, limited long term follow-ups, recording errors, and many children having a limited acceptance of a variety of foods. Additionally, research is needed to study the biological mechanisms which cause these effects. Once researchers are able to fully understand the biological mechanisms that allow the KD to reduce seizures they will be able to work on replicating that mechanism into a more effective drug.
STAFF RELIEF
Recommended therapeutic diets and formularies (supplements and enteral) based on individual needs of various patients.
Used facility guidelines and standardized language when documenting on the Nutrition Care Process within patient’s charts via EPIC software
Conducted independently all aspects of the NCP for a variety of disease states.
Participated in various department’s patient rounds with other members of the health care team (such as MD, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, case managers, DTRs)
Increased efficiency of assessing and charting on patients by developing a standardized assessment form for use of the dietetic staff.