Food for Thought: Tools and Challenges in Critical Care Nutrition

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Food for Thought: Tools and Challenges in Critical Care Nutrition.

Presented By: Colin Fath, MD

Learning Objectives: 

• Understand the potential benefits and risks in nutritional support for the critically ill patient
• Recognize the multiple barriers between our patients and optimal nutrition in ICU
• Identify the strategies and tools available to improve patient outcomes despite these hurdles

While Colin T. Fath, MD, started his college career as a chemical engineering major, he pivoted toward medicine as he saw many engineers moving into management roles as they progressed in their field. “In the hospital I have the opportunity to keep practicing science, work closely with people, and have more chances to be of service in my community,” he says.

The field of medicine was also a familiar one to him with both grandfathers, his father, and one of his sisters in this line of work. Dr. Fath chose to focus on acute care and typically treats surgical emergencies, such as a car accident or an inflamed appendix. “My role is to guide those who are at their very sickest back toward safety,” he says. “Between emergencies, I treat general surgical problems such as hernias, lumps and gallbladder disease.”

He studied at the University of Notre Dame where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering. He then graduated from Wayne State School of Medicine, Detroit, with his Medical Degree. His residency was completed at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, in general surgery and his fellowship in surgical critical care was at University of Kentucky, Lexington.

Dr. Fath sees his role as advisor, with the final decision always with the patients he was done his best to make well-informed. He educates patients on their condition, treatment options and what to expect in the various scenarios. “The right choice depends on each individual’s specific situation and values,” he says.

He believes that while people will eventually become ill, they will be better able to tackle a setback and other challenges in life if they have first taken care of their health.