A systematized interdisciplinary nutritional care plan results in improved clinical outcomes

ObjectiveThis study investigated identification and treatment of patients at-risk for malnutrition and extended inpatient length of stay.DesignData were collected retrospectively from the medical records for a period of 6 months. The records were reviewed for (1) adherence to RD recommendation, (2) decreasing serum albumin during hospital stay, (3) length of hospital stay, (4) readmission within 30 days, (5) age, (6) gender, (7) past medical history, (8) primary and secondary diagnoses, (9) the presence or absence of a diet order and (10) medications.Subjects and participantsMedical records were reviewed for diagnoses associated with nutrition-related complications. Patient's records were excluded for length of stay less than 4 days, or in-hospital death.ResultsThe mean LOS was 10 days shorter when the advice was followed (p = 0.0074).ConclusionsPatients at high nutritional risk have a shorter LOS and have fewer complications when the RD advice is followed.

► Adherence to a nutritional care plan is essential to support patient outcome.
► We examine adherence to a registered dietitian recommendation.
► Poor adherence extends length of hospital stay or readmission within 30 days.
► A systematized approach to nutritional care is needed.