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Micronutrient Deficiencies in a Long Term Acute Care Hospital
Author(s) -
Parkin Courtney,
Rollins Carol
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.22.1_supplement.157.1
Subject(s) - micronutrient , medicine , micronutrient deficiency , vitamin b12 , malnutrition , environmental health , vitamin , intensive care medicine , pediatrics , pathology
Background: The roles of micronutrients and the consequences of their deficiencies in human metabolism, immune function and wound healing are well documented. However, the prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies within the hospital setting is unknown. Objectives: To identify the prevalences of zinc, selenium, vitamin A, vitamin D, and vitamin B12 deficiencies in a long term acute care hospital setting. Results: The number and percent of serum levels indicative of micronutrient deficiency are shown in Table 1. Conclusions: Micronutrient deficiencies within the long term acute care environment appear to be widespread. Patients with a history of poor dietary habits and chronic illness are at high risk of nutrient deficiencies, including micronutrient deficiencies.