Tag: Laboratory monitoring

Refeeding syndrome, a dangerous and potentially fatal fluid and electrolyte shift, typically occurs within the first five days of re-nutrition in malnourished individuals. The critical question of how long to check refeeding labs is central to clinical practice to prevent serious complications like cardiac arrhythmias and seizures.

Approximately 84% of high-risk patients may develop electrolyte abnormalities despite preventative measures during nutritional support. For this reason, knowing which laboratory values are important for monitoring patients with risk of refeeding syndrome is crucial for patient safety and preventing life-threatening complications.