What is refeeding syndrome?

• A. Refeeding syndrome describes the occurrence of electrolyte disturbances when attempting to initially feed the undernourished patient. Potassium, magnesium and phosphorus need to be closely monitored (calcium does not)
• B. Refeeding syndrome is a bacterial infection related to feeding tubes
• C. Refeeding syndrome is a deficiency of vitamins after prolonged fasting
• D. Refeeding syndrome is a glucose intolerance after refeeding the malnourished patient

Answer: (A)

Refeeding syndrome is the metabolic disturbance that can occur when nutrition is restarted in a severely malnourished person. The shift from a catabolic to an anabolic state triggers an insulin surge, driving phosphate, potassium, and magnesium into cells and causing dangerous drops in their blood levels. Because these electrolytes are critical for cellular energy and function, especially in the heart and nerves, they must be closely monitored and corrected early in refeeding. Calcium can fluctuate, but the hallmark concerns are phosphate, potassium, and magnesium; prophylactic thiamine before feeding is also important to prevent related complications. The other descriptions describe bacterial infection from feeding tubes, a simple vitamin deficiency after fasting, or a glucose intolerance, none of which capture the key electrolyte disturbances that define refeeding syndrome.