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Energy and nutrient intake of patients in acute care
Author(s) -
Kowanko Inge,
Simon Stephen,
Wood Jacquelin
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
journal of clinical nursing
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.94
H-Index - 102
eISSN - 1365-2702
pISSN - 0962-1067
DOI - 10.1046/j.1365-2702.2001.00436.x
Subject(s) - medicine , intensive care medicine , nutrient , food intake , environmental health , organic chemistry , chemistry
• There have been numerous reports that the nutritional intake of many hospitalized patients is sub‐optimal, but there is little published information about patients’ diets in Australian hospitals. • In this study, the nutritional intake of patients in general medical wards of an Australian acute care hospital was assessed. • Although the hospital diet can provide adequate energy and nutrients, many patients may not consume sufficient food to meet their needs. • The estimated energy intake of about one‐third of patients was very low, and vitamin C, calcium and zinc intakes were also of concern. • The implications are discussed and recommendations for improved nutritional care are suggested.