Figure 4.

NRS-2002 is based on an interpretation of available randomized clinical trials. *, indicates that a trial directly supports the categorization of patients with that diagnosis. Diagnoses shown in italics are based on the prototypes given below. Nutritional risk is defined by the present nutritional status and risk of impairment of present status, due to increased requirements caused by stress metabolism of the clinical condition. A nutritional care plan is indicated in all patients who are (I) severely undernourished (score =3); or (II) severely ill (score =3); or (III) moderately undernourished + mildly ill (score 2 +1); or (IV) mildly undernourished + moderately ill (score 1 +2). Prototypes for severity of disease—score =1: a patient with chronic disease, admitted to hospital due to complications. The patient is weak but out of bed regularly. Protein requirement is increased, but can be covered by oral diet or supplements in most cases; score =2: a patient confined to bed due to illness, e.g., following major abdominal surgery. Protein requirement is substantially increased, but can be covered, although artificial feeding is required in many cases; score =3: a patient in intensive care with assisted ventilation etc. Protein requirement is increased and cannot be covered even by artificial feeding. Protein breakdown and nitrogen loss can be significantly attenuated.