Nurses General Nursing
Published Jul 10, 2003
passing thru
655 Posts
I was trying to figure it out. I know on most labels it lists the amounts of protein for a 2000 calorie diet.
Is the amount of protein a person needs daily based on
their weight?
The 85 year old I am thinking about only weighs about 100 pounds.
I thought I knew this information until I really started thinking about it.
Anyone recall the term used to describe those 80 years old and older? something like the "super old"..... :)
but not that obviously.
Geriatrics is an interesting field,
anyone know any good sites, off-hand?
Don't bother to look, I will do it when I have time.
It seems to me that a 100 # twenty year old would have different protein needs than a 100 pound 85 year old.
But maybe not. Any thoughts?
Squirrel
33 Posts
It would depend on his BUN/creat level, kidney function and medical history.
The RDA for protein for healthy adults is 0.8 g/kg/day.
If he had renal insufficiency as evidenced by a rise in his BUN/creat, it is recommended his protein requirement be 0.6-0.8 g/kg/day. This range is believed to be high enough to prevent malnutrition, but low enough so it does not increase the workload of the kidneys.
If he had a low albumin level which may indicate malnutrition and did not have renal insufficiency, liver disease, or any other contraindications to a higher protein level, he may require 1.0-1.4 g/kg/day of protein.
Hope this helps!
adrienurse, LPN
1,275 Posts
I would consult a registered dietician
LauraF, RN, ASN, CNA, LPN, RN
568 Posts
Here is a site that posts the different variables when coming up with the recommended amount.
http://www.emedicine.com/pmr/topic159.htm
Protein is toward the bottom. I found it very informative. Good luck!:)