Which statement about electrolyte replacement in refeeding syndrome is false?

Which statement about electrolyte replacement in refeeding syndrome is false?

• A. Electrolytes may be given IV, orally, or via feeding tube.
• B. Potassium repletion is essential.
• C. The protocol should replete all electrolytes ONLY via the feeding tube.
• D. Electrolyte levels guide progression of feeding.

Answer: (C)

In refeeding syndrome, the priority is to correct electrolyte deficits safely using flexible routes for replacement based on the patient’s status and ability to take or absorb nutrients. Electrolyte replacement can be given intravenously, orally, or via a feeding tube, depending on how urgently correction is needed, the patient’s GI function, and tolerability. Potassium repletion is essential because hypokalemia is common and can lead to serious cardiac and neuromuscular complications as insulin drives potassium into cells during refeeding. Electrolyte levels guide the pace of feeding and the need for ongoing replacement; monitoring labs and adjusting therapy helps prevent shifts that could worsen instability. The statement that all electrolytes must be repleted only through the feeding tube is not correct, since IV and oral routes are also appropriate and sometimes necessary.

In refeeding syndrome, the priority is to correct electrolyte deficits safely using flexible routes for replacement based on the patient’s status and ability to take or absorb nutrients. Electrolyte replacement can be given intravenously, orally, or via a feeding tube, depending on how urgently correction is needed, the patient’s GI function, and tolerability. Potassium repletion is essential because hypokalemia is common and can lead to serious cardiac and neuromuscular complications as insulin drives potassium into cells during refeeding. Electrolyte levels guide the pace of feeding and the need for ongoing replacement; monitoring labs and adjusting therapy helps prevent shifts that could worsen instability. The statement that all electrolytes must be repleted only through the feeding tube is not correct, since IV and oral routes are also appropriate and sometimes necessary.