Nutrition in the prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers in stroke patients

Abstract

Stroke is one of the most important causes of mortality and disability of the population worldwide. In 16–20% of patients with acute stroke at admission, during hospitalization and rehabilitation, protein-energy deficiency, as well as micronutrient insufficiency is observed, which is associated with an unfavorable prognosis and the development of pressure ulcers. The widespread use of high-calorie mixtures for oral or probe enteral nutrition for such patients, containing increased amounts of protein, arginine, vitamins A, E, C and minerals (zinc and selenium) of an antioxidant orientation, can have a positive effect on the healing of pressure ulcers. The inclusion of specialized therapeutic mixtures in diet therapy can also potentially reduce the risk of developing pressure ulcers.