The Department of Nutrition and Dietetics at SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre, Kattankulathur, successfully conducted a two-day hands-on workshop titled “Nutritional Assessment and Support in Critically Ill Patients” from March 25th to 26th, 2026.
The program was designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical application, with a strong emphasis on evidence-based nutritional care in intensive care settings.
The workshop brought together healthcare professionals, including clinical dietitians, nurses, ICU technicians, and students from institutions such as MMM College and JBAS College, fostering a collaborative learning environment focused on critical care nutrition.
The event commenced with an inaugural session attended by Dr. D. Jagadeswaran, Dean of Allied Health Sciences; Dr. T. Swarnalingam, Head of Critical Care Medicine; and Dr. Rachula Danial, Head of the SRM Simulation Centre of Excellence.
Ms. Lakshmi E, Associate Professor, delivered the welcome address, followed by the inaugural address by Dr. D. Jagadeswaran, who emphasised the vital role of nutrition in critical care and the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. The session concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Silambu Selvi, Associate Professor.
Day 1: Foundations and Simulation-Based Training
The first day featured an expert session by Dr. Vinita Krishnan, Chief Dietitian, SIMS Hospital, Chennai, who provided in-depth insights into nutritional assessment methods, including anthropometric, biochemical, and clinical approaches, along with tools such as the NUTRIC score.
This was followed by hands-on simulation training led by Dr. T. Swarnalingam and his team, where participants practised Ryles tube insertion, enteral feeding techniques, and the management of associated complications in a controlled clinical environment.
Day 2: Case-Based Learning and Advanced Practice
The second day focused on real-world application through an interactive session by Ms. Vijayashree N, Head and Chief Dietitian, MGM Healthcare. The session explored complex ICU scenarios, including hypermetabolism, refeeding syndrome, and feeding intolerance.
Participants further reinforced their practical skills through an additional hands-on training session and actively engaged in case-based discussions and presentations.
Undergraduate and postgraduate students contributed through clinical case presentations and poster presentations on nutrition-related topics. The workshop saw enthusiastic participation from a diverse group of healthcare trainees and professionals, highlighting its multidisciplinary impact.
The speakers were introduced by Dr. Nandhini G and Mrs. Mythili R, Lecturer.
The valedictory session was presided over by Dr. T. Swarnalingam, during which certificates were distributed to participants, speakers, and competition winners. The workshop report was presented by Dr. Silambu Selvi, followed by a vote of thanks by Dr. Jansi Rani K, Assistant Professor.
The event was coordinated and compered by Ms. Damini M, Lecturer.
Participants successfully demonstrated Ryles tube insertion under expert supervision and showed measurable improvement in nutritional assessment techniques and feeding protocol knowledge.
Overall, the workshop delivered a well-rounded learning experience through a blend of expert lectures, simulation-based training, and interactive discussions. It reinforced SRM Medical College Hospital & Research Centre’s commitment to advancing clinical education and strengthening competencies in critical care nutrition.
