Feeding and Nutrition

 

Activity answers:

Assess risk of dehydration and malnutrition. Does Mrs Jones have any of the following that would suggest that she is dehydrated?

• Thirst
• Headache
• Concentrated urine
• Decreased skin integrity
• Postural hypotension

When assessing nutritional risk consider:

• Body Mass Index (BMI) - Mrs Jones has a BMI of 17.4 (underweight)
• Recent weight loss - 14 pounds >10% of normal body weight
• Ability to eat - Yes
• Loss of appetite - Yes
• Any physical impairments - No
• Low mood – Yes
• Nutritional risk - High

Action plan:

• Discuss issues with patient; does Mrs Jones have any particular worries or concerns?
• Establish any difficulties Mrs Jones may have in planning, preparing or eating meals
• Establish any difficulties Mrs Jones may have in planning or preparing drinks
• Establish a meal plan including drinks and snacks
• Explore and discuss if meals can be prepared by a family member, care assistant or delivered by a meals at home service
• Encourage patient/family to keep a food/drink diary
• Plan weight gain/fluid intake goals
• Refer patient to GP regarding low mood with recommendation to refer onto specialist services