Nutrition & Dietetics
Indirect Calorimetry
Course Aim
Indirect Calorimetry (IC) is the gold standard for assessing energy needs in a clinical setting. This technology significantly enhances nutrition assessment and supports individualised, targeted nutrition prescription. IC is particularly useful for measuring the needs of patients with altered body composition and patients from non-European backgrounds where predictive equations are less valid.
This course covers the theory and application of IC in both the ventilator and canopy hood modes and provides a solid foundation to allow the accurate use of this technology in practice.
On completion of the e-learning modules, participants will be able to:
- Describe the components of energy expenditure in health and disease, including methods used to measure it.
- Explain the principles of Indirect Calorimetry (IC) and how it works in both canopy and ventilated modes.
- Compare the use of IC in ventilated versus self‑ventilating patients, including practical differences and testing conditions.
- Recognise the limitations of predictive equations and summarise the evidence supporting IC for nutrition prescription.
- Identify which patients should be prioritised for IC and understand contraindications in both canopy and ventilated modes.
- Outline the practical considerations and requirements for IC, including consumables and ideal testing conditions.
- Apply knowledge of IC in clinical practice, including interpretation and use in case-based scenarios.
E-Learning Modules
The online component of this course provides 4 hours of self-paced modules created by expert clinicians. Over 3 modules you will explore the basics of Indirect Calorimetry and application in the clinical setting, as well as use case studies to test your understanding.
Face-to-face Workshop
1 day (8-hour) experiential day at The Alfred Hospital. In small groups, Indirect Calorimetry practice will be observed led by expert health professionals. This allows for consolidation of learning from online modules to real-life application.
2026 workshop dates:
- Monday 23rd November 8.30am-4.30pm
*More dates to come in 2027*
Location: The Alfred Hospital, 55 Commerical Rd Melbourne 3004
Community of Practice
Created for ongoing support and sharing of learning to make the most of Indirect Calorimetry practice. This annual subscription allows membership to this group, to ask questions, collaborate and build on existing knowledge.
From $150
$150 for learners with prior completion of Course 2
OR
$200 annual subscription without completion of Course 2
*All course prices are inclusive of GST
*All registration options with inclusion of the e-Learning modules have 12 months of access from the date of registration
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Use the form below to ask us a question regarding our Indirect Calorimetry courses.
We acknowledge the people of the Kulin Nation, the traditional custodians and pay our respects to their culture and their Elders past, present and emerging. We welcome all cultures, nationalities and religions. Being inclusive and providing equitable healthcare is our commitment.