Compliance of acute and long stay geriatric patients with nutritional supplementation

Ir Med J. 2007 May;100(5):473-5.

Abstract

Background: Nutritional supplements are prescribed to improve nutritional status, and reduce hospital stays in manourised hospital patients. Clinical benefits are dependant on compliance, the level of which remains unclear.

Aims: To assess compliance levels with oral nutritional supplementation and determine methods to improve compliance.

Methods: Compliance was observed over 10 days by measuring total supplements prescribed and weighing wastage remaining after use. Areas for improvement were identified and implemented for 6 months. Specifically, a distinct supplement administration round was established and those patients requiring assistance with supplement consumption were identified with signage above their beds. Compliance was re-assessed in a sub sample of patients.

Results: Thirty seven elderly patients (mean age 85 years; 57% female) prescribed nutritional supplements were studied. Mean compliance was significantly greater in males than females (85.7% vs 74%) and acute wards compared to longstay (89.5% vs. 74.2 Compliance with supplements was significantly greater following intervention (mean 74.2% vs. 93%, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion: Compliance with nutritional supplementation is variable among institutionalized geriatric patients. Timing of supplementation dispensation and improving staff vigilance can positively affect compliance.

MeSH terms

  • Acute Disease
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Dietary Supplements / statistics & numerical data*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Length of Stay*
  • Male
  • Nutritional Status*
  • Patient Compliance*
  • Pilot Projects
  • Prospective Studies
  • Time Factors