Nutritional Care of Elderly Patients in Acute Care Settings: A Qualitative Study Publisher Pubmed



Gholizadeh L¹ ; Yazdi K² ; Dehghan Nayeri N³ ; Mohammadi E⁴
Source: Geriatrics and Gerontology International Published:2016

Abstract

Aim: Poor nutritional status is common in older adult patients. The present study aimed to explore barriers and facilitators to nutritional care of elderly patients in acute care settings. Methods: Data were collected through individual face-to-face interviews with 12 registered nurses, and analyzed using interpretive description methodology. Results: Two core themes emerged from the analysis of data: (i) neglected care, with three subthemes of support but also independence, unsupportive environment and responsibility of the family; and (ii) a humanitarian ethic, with two subthemes of respect and dignity and humanitarian care. Conclusions: As an integral part of holistic care, elderly patient nutrition should be emphasised in health professional education, and promoted through managerial support, multidisciplinary collaborations, and implementation of appropriate monitoring and evaluation systems. © 2016 Japan Geriatrics Society.