Hospital focuses on malnutrition

Ward Nutrition Assistants will support and monitor those patients who need assistance with their meals. Based on two of the Acute Medicine for Older People wards, the new post requires key skills including listening, communication, empathy and common sense. Each Ward Nutrition Assistant will oversee patients every day morning and evening, and each and every meal time. The position complements the nursing team and ensures patients are identified as those who need help and encouragement with eating and drinking. It enables dedicated time to focus on the most vulnerable patients. Marie Mignott, Project Lead, Senior Matron, Medicine for Older People and Acute Stroke Services said: "I identified the need for the role as a result of listening to patients, relatives and carers. National statistics show that four out of ten patients admitted to hospital are malnourished. Patients over the age of 80 admitted to hospital have a five times higher prevalence of malnutrition than those under the age of 80. Good nutrition can lead to a better outcome for patients for example improved outcome from illness, increased wound healing, energy intake and shorter stay in a hospital environment." The new team of five assistants have each been provided with the training and skills to assess signs of malnutrition, monitor weight, highlight and alert the nursing team and dieticians with whom they work closely, initiating first line nutrition supplements and formulating food plans. On admission they introduce themselves to the patient and relatives taking time to listen to the patients, recording and communicating their likes and dislikes, ensuring they have the appropriate equipment to help with eating. They also ensure snacks and drinks are available in between meals. Other functions of their role include ensuring that food and fluid intake are monitored and recorded.