What is the primary goal of nutrition support in pediatric burn care?

• A. Meet energy and protein needs promptly
• B. Maintain fluid restriction
• C. Limit protein intake
• D. Delay feeding until wound closure

Answer: (A)

Burn injuries in children create a hypermetabolic, catabolic state that drastically raises energy expenditure and protein breakdown. Providing calories and high-quality protein promptly gives the body the substrates it needs for wound healing, immune function, and growth, while minimizing lean mass loss. Early enteral nutrition supports gut integrity and reduces infection risk, which improves overall outcomes. Delaying feeding or restricting protein would worsen catabolism and healing, and fluid management, though important, is not the primary aim of nutrition support.