Undernutrition significantly affects pediatric patients in the intensive care unit (PICU), leading to increased healthcare utilization and costs. This undernutrition results from an imbalance between nutrient intake and requirements, impacting growth, development, and immunity. 

Studies revealed that approximately 1 in 5 PICU patients had malnutrition, with undernourished children experiencing nearly twice as many clinical diagnoses and over twice the length of stay compared to well-nourished patients. Additionally, undernourished children faced higher risks of hospital readmission and in-hospital mortality, along with substantially higher healthcare costs.

Implementation of a screening tool for undernutrition increased identification and led to reduced length of stay. Early enteral nutrition and specialized formulae are recommended for critically ill children, emphasizing the importance of timely nutrition support to improve outcomes and decrease healthcare burden.