Nutrition therapy for pediatric patients with less than 20% total body surface area burns typically includes

• A. Enteral and parenteral nutrition therapy
• B. Parenteral nutrition therapy
• C. Oral high calorie, high protein diet
• D. Enteral nutrition therapy

Answer: (C)

When a child has a burn that involves a small area of the body, their body enters a hypermetabolic state requiring more calories and protein to support healing and growth, but the gut is usually functional. The most effective and natural way to meet these increased needs is through the oral route with a high-calorie, high-protein diet. This supports wound repair and preserves lean body mass without the risks associated with intravenous nutrition. Parenteral nutrition is reserved for cases where the gut cannot be used or cannot meet the needs through any route. Enteral nutrition would be considered if oral intake isn’t enough, but if the child can meet the requirements with an oral, energy-dense plan, that approach is preferred.