Background: The purpose of this study was to determine knowledge-based nutrition competencies of nurses and describe needed nutrition education relative to reducing protein-calorie malnutrition (PCM) in nursing home residents.
Method: A sample of 44 nurses (35 RNs, 9 LPNs) from five eastern Washington nursing homes completed a 50-item questionnaire that measured nutrition knowledge based on Benner's Novice to Expert Model.
Results: Nurses scored an average 65% +/- 11% on the nutrition examination.
Conclusion: An educational program addressing the identified deficient areas could improve the ability of nursing staff to assess and monitor resident food intake, thereby reducing the prevalence of PCM of residents in nursing homes.