Nutritional therapy in elderly care--a forgotten perspective. A questionnaire study shows clear shortages in the care of the elderly

• It has previously been demonstrated that the use of clinical nutrition in Swedish hospitals did not fulfill European standards. In the present study, a questionnaire-based investigation was performed among nurses working with elderly people living in sheltered housing. Overall, 765 (54.6%) responded. Nearly 90% of the nurses considered themselves responsible for nutritional assessment, although only 36% routinely registered energy intake on patients at risk of undernutrition. More than 60% stated that education regarding clinical nutrition was insufficient. Thus, despite a heavy responsibility in the nutrition care process for nurses, a lack of sufficient knowledge and education was evident. Special efforts should be aimed at a clarified organization as well as education.

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MEDICIN

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