This study compared calorie needs, prescription and intake in enterally fed trauma and burn patients. Calorie needs of twenty-eight sequentially admitted patients were assessed by indirect calorimetry or by the Fick method. Caloric prescriptions were calculated from physicians orders. Following attainment of ordered goal rate, three day caloric intake was averaged. Caloric needs were not statistically different from caloric prescription. Caloric intake was significantly lower than caloric needs (p= 0.001). Intolerance and procedures were frequently cited reasons for withholding feedings. Results of this study suggest that trauma and burn patients may not receive the prescribed level of calories during the initial stage of enteral nutrition support. / Department of Family and Consumer Sciences