The use of the Mini-Nutritional Assessment (MNA) tool in elderly orthopaedic patients

The Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) and a nutrition education program for high risk cancer patients: strategies to improve dietary intake in cancer patients

Four hundred and forty-four high-risk oncology patients with malnutrition participated in this study aimed at assessing the effectiveness of nutrition education on improving an oncology patient’s dietary intake. We used a nutritional risk screening to select oncology patients in need of nutritional care. Team Nutrition provides technical assistance for foodservice, nutrition education for patients and their caregivers, and support for healthy eating and physical activity to improve their diets and their lives. The average contribution of protein and total energy of each patient increased after imparting the nutritional education to them. Thus, nutritional education is an effective measure to bring about a favorable and significant change in oncology patients’ nutrient intake.

Low postoperative dietary intake is associated with worse functional course in geriatric patients up to 6 months after hip fracture

We examined the relationship between postoperative dietary intake (DI) of geriatric hip fracture (HF) patients and their functional and clinical course until 6 months after hospital discharge. In eighty-eight HF patients ≥ 75 years, postoperative DI was estimated with plate diagrams of main meals over four postoperative days. DI was stratified as >50, >25–50, ≤ 25 % of meals served. Functional status according to Barthel index (activities of daily living) and patients' mobility level before fracture, postoperatively, at discharge and 6 months later were assessed and related to DI levels. In-hospital complications were recorded according to clinical diagnosis. Associations were evaluated using χ2and Kruskal–Wallis tests, and repeated-measures ANOVA and ANCOVA. Postoperatively, 28 % of participants ate >50 %, 43 % ate >25–50 % and 28 % ≤ 25 % of meals served. Irrespective of pre-fracture functional status, patients with DI ≤ 25 % had significantly lower Barthel index scores at all times after surgery (allP< 0·05) and ANOVA revealed a significant time × DI interaction effect (P= 0·047) on development of Barthel index scores that remained significant after adjustment for potential confounders. Patients with DI >50 % more often had regained their pre-fracture mobility level than those with DI ≤ 25 % at discharge (>50 %: 36 %; >25–50 %: 10 %; ≤ 25 %: 0 %;P= 0·001) and 6 months after discharge (88; 87; 68 %;P= 0·087) and had significantly less complications (median 2 (25th–75th percentile 1–3); 3 (25th–75th percentile 2–4); 3 (25th–75th percentile 3–4);P= 0·012). To conclude, geriatric HF patients had very low postoperative voluntary DI and thus need specific nutritional interventions to achieve adequate DI to support functional and clinical recovery.

Family caregivers' mental health is associated with postoperative recovery of elderly patients with hip fracture: a sample in Taiwan

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated the relationship between family caregivers' mental health and postoperative recovery for elderly patients with hip fracture in Taiwan.

METHODS

This study is a secondary analysis of data from a randomized controlled trial with 12-month follow-up on 276 family caregiver-patient dyads. Categories of caregiver mental-health trajectory groups were identified by latent-class finite-mixture modeling. Differences in these groups were explored using the generalized estimating equation approach for effects on patients' postoperative recovery, including pain intensity, range of motion, maximum muscle strength, recovery of self-care ability, mobility, re-hospitalization, and health-related quality of life.

RESULTS

The patterns of family caregivers' mental health best fit a three-group trajectory model (poor, moderate, and good). Compared to patients with caregivers in the "poor" mental health group, patients with caregivers in the "good" group had better trajectories in physical functional recovery, including mobility, muscle strength, hip flexion and extension, and ankle extension. These patients were also less likely to be hospitalized, experienced less pain, and had better physical and mental health. Patients with caregivers in the "moderate" group likewise performed better than those in the "poor" group.

CONCLUSION

During the first year following discharge, postoperative recovery of patients after hip fracture was associated with their family caregivers' mental health. When a family caregiver's mental health was "poor," the patient recovering after hip-fracture surgery was more likely to recover poorly. These results suggest that health care providers could consider family caregivers' mental well-being while estimating recovery times and health outcomes of patients following hip fracture.

Pre-hospital dietary intake correlates with muscle mass at the time of fracture in older hip-fractured patients

Background: Failure to meet an adequate dietary intake is involved in the pathogenesis of sarcopenia and osteoporosis, which in turn increase the risk for falls and fractures, respectively. Older people with hip fracture are often protein-malnourished at hospitalization. Whether low protein-energy intake is associated with muscle atrophy in hip-fractured patients is presently unknown. This information is necessary for the development of novel strategies to manage this especially vulnerable patient population. The aim of this study was, therefore, to explore the relationship between dietary intake and muscle mass in older hip-fractured patients.

Methods: Analyses were conducted in hip-fractured elderly admitted to an orthopedic and trauma surgery ward (University Hospital). Muscle mass was estimated by bioelectrical impedance analysis within 24 h from admission. Dietary information was collected via 24-h dietary recall and nutrient intake calculated by a nutrition software.

Results: Among 62 hip-fractured patients (mean age 84.6 ± 7.6 years, 84% women), the average energy intake was 929.2 ± 170.3 Kcal day⁻¹, with higher values reported by men (1.046.8 ± 231.4 Kcal day⁻¹) relative to women (906.5 ± 148.3 Kcal day⁻¹; p = 0.01). Absolute and normalized protein intake was 50.0 ± 13.5 g day⁻¹ and 0.88 ± 0.27 g kg (body weight)^–1 day^–1, respectively, with no gender differences. A positive correlation was determined between total energy intake and muscle mass (r = 0.384; p = 0.003). Similarly, protein and leucine consumption was positively correlated with muscle mass (r = 0.367 and 0.311, respectively; p = 0.005 for both).

Conclusion: A low intake of calories, protein, and leucine is associated with reduced muscle mass in hip-fractured elderly. Given the relevance of sarcopenia as a risk factor for adverse outcomes in this patient population, our findings highlight the importance of a comprehensive dietary assessment for the detection of nutritional deficits predisposing to or aggravating muscle atrophy.

Prevalence of protein-energy malnutrition in hospital patients over 75 years of age admitted for hip fracture

INTRODUCTION

One percent of falls in over-75 years old cause hip fracture (HF). Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is associated with falls and fracture. PEM screening and perioperative nutritional management are recommended by the European Society of Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition, yet data on nutritional status in elderly HF patients are sparse. The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) score is presently the most effective screening tool for PEM in over-75 years old.

OBJECTIVE

The principal objective of the present study was to determine the prevalence on MNA of PEM in patients aged over 75 years admitted for HF. Secondary objectives were to identify factors associated with PEM and its role as a factor of evolution.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A prospective observational epidemiological study included 50 patients aged over 75 years admitted for HF in an 8-bed orthopedic surgery department with a geriatric follow-up unit. PEM was defined by MNA<17/30. Assessment systematically comprised associated comorbidity (Cumulative Illness Rating Scale-Geriatric [CIRS-G]), cognitive status on the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE), functional status on activities of daily life (ADL), and mean hospital stay (MHS). Scores were compared on quantitative tests (Student t) with the significance threshold set at P<0.05.

RESULTS

Mean age for the 50 patients was 86.1 years (range, 77-94 years). Prevalence of PEM was 28%; a further 58% of patients were at risk for PEM. PEM was associated with elevated CIRS-G (P<0.006), greater numbers of severe comorbidities (P=0.006), more severe cognitive disorder (P=0.005) and functional dependence (P=0.002), and 8 days' longer MHS (P=0.012).

DISCUSSION

The present study confirmed the high prevalence of PEM in HF patients aged over 75 years, supporting longer hospital stay. MNA is a diagnostic gold standard, not to be replaced by albuminemia or body-mass index in this perioperative clinical situation. Given the present economic stakes relating to geriatric trauma patients' hospital stay, it is essential to prevent, diagnose and treat PEM in elderly subjects.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV; prospective cohort study.

Validation of the modified mini nutritional assessment short-forms in different populations of older people in Poland

OBJECTIVE

To assess the usefulness in different populations of elderly people in Poland of both modified versions of Mini Nutritional Assessment Short-Forms (MNA-SFs) with a three-category scoring classification: one using BMI (MNA-SF-BMI) and another using calf circumference (MNA-SF-CC).

SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

A group of 932 community-dwelling subjects from the urban environment, 812 subjects from the rural environment and 859 subjects from an institutional environment (nursing homes).

MEASUREMENTS

Agreement between both MNA-SFs and the MNA full form.

RESULTS

MNA-SF-BMI correctly classified 84.12%, 82.51% and 81.84% of subjects from urban, rural and institutional environment, respectively. For MNA-SF-CC those values were 82.4%, 71.8% and 76.6%, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of MNA-SF-BMI and MNA-SF-CC against full MNA in screening for "at risk/malnutrition" and "malnutrition" were generally very high, except for relatively lower sensitivity (74.1%) when screening for "malnutrition" with MNA-SF-CC in nursing homes.

CONCLUSION

Both MNA-SFs can be recommended as screening tools in assessing the nutritional state of the community-dwelling and institutionalised elderly in Poland. The full version of the MNA confirmed the results of MNA-SFs in this group. The "classic" MNA-SF using BMI was found to perform better than the MNA-SF-CC. The MNA-SF-CC should be used only when measuring BMI is not possible. While using MNA-SF-CC in nursing homes, a higher MNA-SF-CC cut-point of eleven should be rather used in this population to screen for "at risk/malnutrition".

Evaluation of malnutrition in orthopaedic surgery

Malnutrition can increase the risk of surgical site infection in both elective spine surgery and total joint arthroplasty. Obesity and diabetes are common comorbid conditions in patients who are malnourished. Despite the relatively high incidence of nutritional disorders among patients undergoing elective orthopaedic surgery, the evaluation and management of malnutrition is not generally well understood by practicing orthopaedic surgeons. Serologic parameters such as total lymphocyte count, albumin level, prealbumin level, and transferrin level have all been used as markers for nutrition status. In addition, anthropometric measurements, such as calf and arm muscle circumference or triceps skinfold, and standardized scoring systems, such as the Rainey-MacDonald nutritional index, the Mini Nutritional Assessment, and institution-specific nutritional scoring tools, are useful to define malnutrition. Preoperative nutrition assessment and optimization of nutritional parameters, including tight glucose control, normalization of serum albumin, and safe weight loss, may reduce the risk of perioperative complications, including infection.

Malnutrition: a highly predictive risk factor of short-term mortality in elderly presenting to the emergency department

OBJECTIVES

To identify independent risk factors of mortality among elderly patients in the 3 months after their visit (T3) to an emergency department (ED).

DESIGN

Prospective cohort study.

SETTING

University hospital ED in an urban setting in France.

PARTICIPANTS

One hundred seventy-three patients aged 75 and older were admitted to the ED over two weeks (18.7% of the 924 ED visits). Of these, 164 patients (94.8%) were included in our study, and 157 (95.7%) of them were followed three months after their ED visit.

MEASUREMENTS

During the inclusion period (T0), a standardized questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographic and environmental characteristics, ED visit circumstances, medical conditions and geriatric assessment including functional and nutritional status. Three months after the ED visits (T3), patients or their caregivers were interviewed to collect data on vital status, and ED return or hospitalization.

RESULTS

Among the 157 patients followed at T3, 14.6% had died, 19.9% had repeated ED visits, and 63.1% had been hospitalized. The two independent predictive factors for mortality within the 3 months after ED visit were: malnutrition screened by the Mini Nutritional Assessment short-form (MNA-SF) (OR=20.2; 95% CI: 5.74-71.35; p<.001) and the Cumulative Illness Rating Scale for Geriatrics (CIRS-G) score (OR=1.1; 95% CI: 1.01-1.22; p=.024).

CONCLUSION

Malnutrition is the strongest independent risk factor predicting short-term mortality in elderly patients visiting the ED, and it was easily detected by MNA-SF and supported from the ED visit.

Assessing the nutritional status of elderly Chinese lung cancer patients using the Mini-Nutritional Assessment (MNA(®)) tool

PURPOSE

This study assessed the nutritional status of elderly Chinese lung cancer inpatients using a revised version of the Mini-Nutritional Assessment (MNA(®)) tool.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The revised version of the MNA tool was used to assess the nutritional status of 180 elderly Chinese lung cancer inpatients prior to their scheduled surgery between June 2010 and July 2011. Patients' demographic data, anthropometric parameters, and biochemical markers were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

Among the 180 inpatients who underwent the MNA, 9% were malnourished (MNA score < 19), 33% were at risk of malnutrition (MNA score 19-23), and 58% were well nourished (MNA score ≥ 24). There was significant correlation between the MNA scores of patients who were malnourished, at risk of malnutrition, and well nourished (P < 0.001), as well as between total MNA score and most MNA questions. The three patient groups with different nutritional statuses differed significantly in their responses to anthropometrics and global, diet, and subjective assessments.

CONCLUSION

Incidence rates of malnutrition prior to surgery are high among elderly Chinese lung cancer inpatients. The revised MNA is a valid and reliable tool that can be used to assess and prevent malnutrition among these inpatients.

Comprehensive and subacute care interventions improve health-related quality of life for older patients after surgery for hip fracture: a randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Elderly patients with hip fracture have been found to benefit from subacute care interventions that usually comprise usual care with added geriatric intervention, early rehabilitation, and supported discharge. However, no studies were found on the effects of combining subacute care and health-maintenance interventions on health outcomes for elders with hip fracture.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the effects of an interdisciplinary comprehensive care programme with those of subacute care and usual care programmes on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) for elderly patients with hip fracture.

DESIGN

Randomised controlled trial.

SETTINGS

A 3000-bed medical centre in northern Taiwan.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients with hip fracture (N=299) were randomised into three groups: subacute care (n=101), comprehensive care (n=99), and usual care (n=99).

METHODS

Subacute care included geriatric consultation, continuous rehabilitation, and discharge planning. Comprehensive care consisted of subacute care plus health-maintenance interventions to manage depressive symptoms, manage malnutrition, and prevent falls. Usual care included only 1-2 in-hospital rehabilitation sessions, discharge planning without environmental assessment, no geriatric consultation, and no in-home rehabilitation. HRQoL was measured using the Medical Outcomes Study Short-Form 36 Taiwan version at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after discharge.

RESULTS

Participants in the comprehensive care group improved more in physical function, role physical, general health and mental health than those in the usual care group. The subacute care group had greater improvement in physical function, role physical, vitality, and social function than the usual care group. The intervention effects for both comprehensive and subacute care increased over time, specifically from 6 months after hip fracture onward, and reached a maximum at 12 months following discharge.

CONCLUSIONS

Both comprehensive care and subacute care programmes may improve health outcomes of elders with hip fracture. Our results may provide a reference for health care providers in countries using similar programmes with Chinese/Taiwanese immigrant populations.

Preoperative Nutritional Assessment in Elderly Cancer Patients Undergoing Elective Surgery: MNA or PG-SGA?

This study aims to evaluate and compare the use of patient-generated subjective global assessment (PG-SGA) and mini nutritional assessment (MNA) as a preoperative nutritional assessment tool in elderly cancer patients. This was a prospective study carried out on 47 patients, 45 years and above suffering from cancer and admitted to Padmashree Dr. D.Y. Patil Medical College and Hospital, Pune. The patients were evaluated with PG-SGA and MNA tools at the time of admission and baseline data were collected. All patients had undergone surgeries as per indications. Postoperatively, the surgical outcomes and adverse events were noted and statistically evaluated. The average age of the study sample was 61.46 years and 29 patients were females. The patients classified by PG-SGA were ten in group A and 37 in group B and C. The patients classified by MNA were five in no risk group and 42 in group with patients at risk and malnourished. When evaluated with PG-SGA in group B and C, wound infections and requirement of change of antibiotic were seen in 86.4 % patients and their average day of onset of infection was 5.6 days. Antibiotics were administered to these patients for an average of 14.2 days and their average duration of stay was 29 days. On the other hand, the evaluation of patients with MNA, at risk and malnourished patients, wound infections, and requirement of change of antibiotic were seen in 81 % of patients and their average day of onset of infection was 5.6 days. Antibiotics were administered to these patients for an average of 13.8 days and their average duration of stay was 27 days. The results were statistically significant. The mini nutritional assessment is more exhaustive in identifying patients at risk and is useful in screening populations to identify frail elderly persons allowing us to intervene earlier, thereby improving the patient prognosis. The patient-generated subjective global assessment is a more comprehensive tool for elderly cancer patients, which identifies a more extensive range of nutrition impact symptoms and predicts the postoperative outcomes more accurately. Authors recommend its usage in evaluating the aforementioned subset of patients.

Nutritional status and short-term outcome of hip arthroplasty

PURPOSE

To review nutritional status and outcome of 90 patients who underwent total hip arthroplasty (THA) or hemiarthroplasty.

METHODS

Records of 51 women and 39 men aged 26 to 96 (median, 71) years who underwent elective THA (n=48) for osteoarthritis, or trauma-related THA (n=10) or hemiarthroplasty (n=32) for subcapital femoral neck fractures using an uncemented femoral stem were retrospectively reviewed. Patient demographics and intra- and post-operative complications were recorded. Patient co-morbidities were assessed according to the Charlson grading system. Nutritional status was assessed using haematological markers of serum albumin (ALB) level and total lymphocyte count (TLC). Samples were taken on the day of the operation and within 24 hours of operation. Suboptimal nutrition was defined as a serum ALB level of <3.5 g/dl and a TLC of <1.50 cells/mm.

RESULTS

86% of trauma patients and 30% of elective patients were malnourished preoperatively (p<0.001). Preoperatively, more males than females had suboptimal ALB levels (28% vs. 8%, p=0.033) and TLC (82% vs. 31%, p<0.001). Age was inversely proportional to preoperative ALB and TLC values; patients older than 75 years had significantly lower values. Of those staying >7 days in hospital, 67% were aged >75 years as opposed to 31% were aged ≤ 75 years (p=0.001). Male gender, old age, and presentation with trauma were risk factors for suboptimal nutritional parameters (p<0.001 for all). Patients with suboptimal ALB and TLC values had a significantly longer stay in hospital (p=0.032 and p=0.021, respectively).

CONCLUSION

The rate of malnourishment was significantly higher in patients having trauma-related surgery than in those having elective surgery. Malnourished patients are at greater risk of prolonged hospital stay. Preoperative nutritional assessment may be useful in predicting patients at high surgical risk.

Mini Nutritional Assessment predicts gait status and mortality 6 months after hip fracture

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), the Nutritional Risk Screening (NRS) 2002 and the American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status Score (ASA) as predictors of gait status and mortality 6 months after hip fracture. A total of eighty-eight consecutive patients over the age of 65 years with hip fracture admitted to an orthopaedic unit were prospectively evaluated. Within the first 72 h of admission, each patient's characteristics were recorded, and the MNA, the NRS 2002 and the ASA were performed. Gait status and mortality were evaluated 6 months after hip fracture. Of the total patients, two were excluded because of pathological fractures. The remaining eighty-six patients (aged 80·2 (sd 7·3) years) were studied. Among these patients 76·7 % were female, 69·8 % walked with or without support and 12·8 % died 6 months after the fracture. In a multivariate analysis, only the MNA was associated with gait status 6 months after hip fracture (OR 0·773, 95 % CI 0·663, 0·901; P= 0·001). In the Cox regression model, only the MNA was associated with mortality 6 months after hip fracture (hazard ratio 0·869, 95 % CI 0·757, 0·998; P= 0·04). In conclusion, the MNA best predicts gait status and mortality 6 months after hip fracture. These results suggest that the MNA should be included in the clinical stratification of patients with hip fracture to identify and treat malnutrition in order to improve the outcomes.

Body composition in older community-dwelling adults with hip fracture: portable field methods validated by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry

Ageing is associated with weight loss and subsequently poor health outcomes. The present study assessed agreement between two field methods, bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (BIS) and corrected arm muscle area (CAMA) for assessment of body composition against dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), the reference technique. Agreement between two predictive equations estimating skeletal muscle mass (SMM) from BIS against SMM from DXA was also determined. Assessments occurred at baseline < 14 d post-surgery (n 79), and at 6 months (6M; n 75) and 12 months (12M; n 63) in community-living older adults after surgical treatment for hip fracture. The 95 % limits of agreement (LOA) between BIS and DXA, CAMA and DXA and the equations and DXA were assessed using Bland-Altman analyses. Mean bias and LOA for fat-free mass (FFM) between BIS and DXA were: baseline, 0.7 (-10.9, 12.4) kg; 6M, - 0.5 (-20.7, 19.8) kg; 12M, 0.1 (-8.7, 8.9) kg and for SMM between CAMA and DXA were: baseline, 0.3 (-11.7, 12.3) kg; 6M, 1.3 (-4.5, 7.1) kg; 12M, 0.9 (-5.4, 7.2) kg. Equivalent data for predictive equations against DXA were: equation 1: baseline, 15.1 (-9.5, 20.6) kg; 6M, 17.1 (-12.0, 22.2) kg; 12M, 17.5 (-13.0, 22.0) kg; equation 2: baseline, 12.6 (-7.3, 19.9) kg; 6M, 14.4 (-9.7, 19.1) kg; 12M, 14.8 (-10.7, 18.9) kg. Proportional bias (BIS: β = -0.337, P< 0.001; CAMA: β = -0.294, P< 0.001) was present at baseline but not at 6M or 12 M. Clinicians should be cautious in using these field methods to predict FFM and SMM, particularly in the acute care setting. New predictive equations would be beneficial.

Development and validation of criteria for determining undernutrition in community-dwelling older men and women: The Short Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire 65+

BACKGROUND & AIMS

There is no valid, fast and easy-to-apply set of criteria to determine (risk of) undernutrition in community-dwelling older persons. The aim of this study was to develop and validate such criteria.

METHODS

Selection of potential anthropometric and undernutrition-related items was based on consensus literature. The criteria were developed using 15-year mortality in community-dwelling older persons ≥ 65 years (Longitudinal Aging Study Amsterdam, n = 1687) and validated in an independent sample (InCHIANTI, n = 1142).

RESULTS

Groups distinguished were: (1) undernutrition (mid-upper arm circumference <25 cm or involuntary weight loss ≥4 kg/6 months); (2) risk of undernutrition (poor appetite and difficulties climbing staircase); and (3) no undernutrition (others). Respective hazard ratio's for 15-year mortality were: (1) 2.22 (95% CI 1.83-2.69); and (2) 1.57 (1.22-2.01) ((3) = reference). The area under the curve (AUC) was 0.55. Comparable results were found stratified by sex, excluding cancer/obstructive lung disease/(past) smoking, using 6-year mortality, and applying results to the InCHIANTI study (hazard ratio's 2.12 and 2.46, AUC 0.59).

CONCLUSIONS

The developed set of criteria (SNAQ⁶⁵⁺) for determining (risk of) undernutrition in community-dwelling older persons shows good face validity and moderate predictive validity based on the consistent association with mortality in a second independent study sample.

Considerations for screening tool selection and role of predictive and concurrent validity

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Nutrition screening tool selection can be difficult. This review critically examines the relevance of validity, specifically concurrent (agreement between tools) and predictive validity (prediction of outcomes), which have been the focus of several recent studies. An operational framework for screening tool selection is provided to contextualise the findings.

RECENT FINDINGS

Studies of predictive and concurrent validity involving screening tools comprising a variable number of nutritional and non-nutritional items (some nonmodifiable) have yielded inconsistent results. The use of one tool as a gold standard to judge the relative merits of other tools can be misleading because there is no agreed gold standard and different tools were designed for diagnostic, prognostic or other purposes. The use of observed outcomes (without nutritional intervention) as the gold standard may not adequately reflect the value of tools designed to assess nutritional status and need for nutritional intervention.

SUMMARY

Over-reliance on concurrent and predictive validity can be confusing and even counter-productive if used inappropriately. A proposed framework for screening tool selection indicates many factors should be considered so that there is purpose and harmony between the screening tool and the screening programme.

Prevalence of malnutrition in orally and tube-fed elderly nursing home residents in Germany and its relation to health complaints and dietary intake

Objective. To investigate the prevalence of malnutrition in orally and tube-fed nursing home (NH) residents in Germany and its relation to common health complaints and dietary intake. Methods. In 350 NH residents, subjects' characteristics, Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), and several health problems were inquired with the nursing staff using standardised interviews. In a subset of 122 residents, dietary intake was assessed by 3-day weighing records. Results. 7.7% of the participants were tube fed. 24.1% of orally nourished and 57.7% of tube-fed residents were malnourished (MNA < 17 p.). Malnutrition was significantly related to nausea/vomiting, constipation, pressure ulcers, dehydration, infections, antibiotic use, and hospitalisation. Mean daily energy intake was 1535 ± 413 kcal and mean protein intake was 54.2 ± 0.9 g/d irrespective of the nutritional state. Conclusion. In Germany, malnutrition is widespread among NH residents and is related to common health problems. The MNA rather reflects health condition than currently reduced dietary intake.

A trial assessing N-3 as treatment for injury-induced cachexia (ATLANTIC trial): does a moderate dose fish oil intervention improve outcomes in older adults recovering from hip fracture?

BACKGROUND

Proximal femoral fractures are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Pre-existing malnutrition and weight loss amongst this patient group is of primary concern, with conventional nutrition support being largely ineffective. The inflammatory response post proximal femoral fracture surgery and the subsequent risk of cachexia may explain the inability of conventional high energy high protein management to produce an anabolic response amongst these patients. Omega-3 fatty acids derived from fish oils have been extensively studied for their anti-inflammatory benefits. Due to their anti-inflammatory properties, the benefit of fish oil combined with individualized nutrition support amongst proximal femoral fracture patients post surgery is an attractive potential therapeutic strategy. The aim of the ATLANTIC trial is to assess the potential benefits of an anti-inflammatory dose of fish oil within the context of a 12 week individualised nutrition program, commencing seven days post proximal femoral fracture surgery.

METHODS/DESIGN

This randomized controlled, double blinded trial, will recruit 150 community dwelling elderly patients aged ≥65 years, within seven days of surgery for proximal femoral fracture. Participants will be randomly allocated to receive either a 12 week individualized nutrition support program complemented with 20 ml/day anti-inflammatory dose fish oil (~3.6 g eicosapentaenoic acid, ~2.4 g docosahexanoic acid; intervention), or, a 12 week individualized nutrition support program complemented with 20 ml/day low dose fish oil (~0.36 g eicosapentaenoic acid, ~0.24 g docosahexanoic acid; control).

DISCUSSION

The ATLANTIC trial is the first of its kind to provide fish oil combined with individualized nutrition therapy as an intervention to address the inflammatory response experienced post proximal femoral fracture surgery amongst elderly patients. The final outcomes of this trial will assist clinicians in the development of effective and alternative treatment methods post proximal femoral fracture surgery which may ultimately result in a reduction in systemic inflammation, loss of weight and lean muscle and improvements in nutritional status, mobility, independence and quality of life among elderly patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ACTRN12609000241235.

Efficacy and cost-effectiveness of nutritional intervention in elderly after hip fracture: design of a randomized controlled trial

Background

Hip fracture patients often have an impaired nutritional status at the time of fracture, which can result in a higher complication rate, prolonged rehabilitation time and increased mortality. A study was designed to evaluate the effect of nutritional intervention on nutritional status, functional status, total length of stay, postoperative complications and cost-effectiveness.

Methods

Open-labelled, multi-centre, randomized controlled trial in hip fracture patients aged 55 years and above. The intervention group receives dietetic counselling (by regular home visits and telephone calls) and oral nutritional supplementation for three months after surgery. The control group receives usual dietetic care as provided by the hospital. Outcome assessment is performed at three and six months after hip fracture.

Discussion

Patient recruitment has started in July 2007 and has ended in December 2009. First results are expected in 2011.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00523575

Serum albumin and total lymphocyte count as predictors of outcome in hip fractures

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Hip fractures are a significant cause of mortality and morbidity in the elderly. Malnutrition is a significant contributor to this, however no consensus exists as to the detection or management of this condition. We hypothesise that results of admission serum albumin and total lymphocyte count (TLC), as markers of Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM) can help predict clinical outcome in hip fracture patients aged over 60 years.

METHODS

This retrospective study evaluated the nutritional status of patients with hip fractures using albumin and TLC assays and analysed their prognostic relevance. Clinical outcome parameters studied were delay to operation, duration of in-patient stay, re-admission and in-patient, 3- and 12-month mortality.

RESULTS

Four hundred and fifteen hip fracture patients were evaluated. Survival data were available for 377 patients at 12 months. In-hospital mortality for PEM patients was 9.8%, compared with 0% for patients without. Patients with PEM had a higher 12-month mortality compared to patients who had normal values of both laboratory parameters (Odds Ratio 4.6; 95% CI: 1.0-21.3). Serum albumin (Hazard Ratio 0.932, 95% CI: 0.9-1.0) and age (Hazard Ratio 1.04, 95% CI: 1.0-1.1) were found to be significant independent prognostic factors of mortality by Cox regression analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

These results highlight the relevance of assessing the nutritional status of patients with hip fractures at the time of admission and emphasises the correlation between PEM and outcome in these patients.

Usefulness of the Chinese Nutrition Screening (CNS) tool in predicting 12 month mortality in elderly Hong Kong Chinese living in institutions

OBJECTIVES

To determine the cut off score of the CNS in predicting 12 months mortality.

DESIGN

Data was collected and followed up from a previous study among elderly subjects (n = 515) living in community institutional setting. The risk of malnutrition and 12 months mortality was ranked by the CNS and compared with that by SGA. Reliability was assessed by the sensitivity and specificity of the prediction with SGA as well as BMI alone. Sensitivity and specificity was calculated to determine validity as well as using positive and negative predictive values in predicting mortality at 12 months.

RESULTS

All three tools (BMI, SGA, CNS) demonstrated significant difference of higher mortality rate (P < .001) in the malnourished group. CNS at score < or = 21 showed comparable results to SGA tool and BMI at classifying malnutrition. And using cut off score > or = 22 also show significant results with SGA in classifying patients with normal nutrition. CNS score at > or = 22 sensitivity was 60.9% and specificity was 72.9% with a Negative Predictive value of 92.3% and a Positive Predictive value of 25.8%.

CONCLUSION

CNS tool at cut off > or = 22 is just as good as using BMI or SGA in identifying those who have a normal nutritional status. This is useful in particular, when biochemical or anthropometric data is not available. This further validates the use of > or = 22 as the best cut off point with the CNS tool and just as good at predicting of mortality when compared with SGA and BMI assessments.

The effects of different nutritional measurements on delayed wound healing after hip fracture in the elderly

BACKGROUND

It has been well recognized that malnutrition causes wounds to heal inadequately and incompletely. Malnutrition is often observed in the elderly, and it appears to be more severe in patients with hip fracture than in the general aging population. Few prospective studies give a detailed account of the identification and classification of nutritional status in the elderly. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of different nutritional measurements on wound healing status after hip fracture in the elderly.

METHODS

From September 2002 to December 2007, 207 hip fracture patients older than 60 y treated surgically were reviewed for preoperative nutritional status. There were 81 males and 126 females with an average age of 75.93 y (62-91 y); 131 cases with femoral neck fractures, 76 cases with intertrochanteric fractures. Parameters indicative of nutritional status (serum albumin, serum transferrin, serum pre-albumin, and total lymphocyte count levels) at the time of admission were assessed, along with anthropometric measurements, Rainey MacDonald nutritional index, and MNA tool. Suture removal was performed on postoperative day 14.

RESULTS

Delayed wound healing complicated 46 (22.2%) of the 207 cases. The preoperative serum transferring total lymphocyte count levels, MNA total score, and Rainey MacDonald nutritional index were significantly lower for patients who subsequently had delayed wound healing. When all variables were subjected to multivariate analysis, only total lymphocyte count levels and MNA total score showed significant value in predicting which patients would have delayed wound healing. Through prophylactic antibiotics and adherence to strict aseptic precautions, on follow-up, wound healing was normal in all patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients at risk for delayed wound healing problems after hip fracture can be identified using relatively inexpensive laboratory test such as TLC and MNA tool. The clinician must be aware of the risk values of both measurements. We believe this information is particularly important before planning procedures of hip fractures in the elderly.

Use of the mini nutritional assessment tool in elderly people from long-term institutions of southeast of Brazil

BACKGROUND

the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) is a multidimensional method of nutritional evaluation that allows the diagnosis of malnutrition and risk of malnutrition in elderly people, it is important to mention that this method has not been well studied in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE

to verify the use of the MNA in elderly people that has been living in long term institutions for elderly people.

DESIGN

transversal study.

PARTICIPANTS

89 people (>/= 60 years), being 64.0% men. The average of age for both genders was 73.7 +/- 9.1 years old, being 72.8 +/- 8.9 years old for men, and 75.3 +/- 9.3 years old for women.

SETTING

long-term institutions for elderly people located in the Southeast of Brazil.

METHODS

it was calculated the sensibility, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values. It was data to set up a ROC curve to verify the accuracy of the MNA. The variable used as a "standard" for the nutritional diagnosis of the elderly people was the corrected arm muscle area because it is able to provide information or an estimative of the muscle reserve of a person being considered a good indicator of malnutrition in elderly people.

RESULTS

the sensibility was 84.0%, the specificity was 36.0%, the positive predictive value was 77.0%, and the negative predictive value was 47.0%; the area of the ROC curve was 0.71 (71.0%).

CONCLUSION

the MNA method has showed accuracy, and sensibility when dealing with the diagnosis of malnutrition and risk of malnutrition in institutionalized elderly groups of the Southeastern region of Brazil, however, it presented a low specificity.

Malnutrition in hip fracture patients: an intervention study

AIMS

To investigate whether a nutritional intervention in older women and men with femoral neck fracture had an effect on postoperative complications during hospitalization and on nutritional status at a four-month follow-up.

METHODS

The design was a randomized controlled trial. The present study sample consisted of 157 patients aged 70 years and above with femoral neck fracture. The nutritional intervention included, among other things, a nutritional journal to detect nutrition deficiencies and protein-enriched meals for at least four days postoperatively. Further, at least two nutritional and protein drinks were served each day during the whole hospitalization and other factors that would influence the patient's nutrition were also considered and dealt with. Postoperative complications were registered and patients were assessed using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) scale, including body mass index (BMI), on admission and at a four-month follow-up.

RESULTS

Malnutrition was common and low MNA scores were associated with postoperative complications such as delirium and decubitus ulcers. There were significantly fewer days of delirium in the intervention group, seven patients in the intervention group developed decubitus ulcers vs. 14 patients in the control group and the total length of hospitalization was shorter. There were no detectable significant improvements regarding nutritional parameters between the intervention and the control group at the four-month follow-up but men improved their mean BMI, body weight and MNA scores in both the intervention and the control groups while women deteriorated in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Malnutrition was common among older people with hip fractures admitted to hospital. The nutritional intervention might have contributed to the patients suffering fewer days with delirium, fewer decubitus ulcers and shorter hospitalization but did not improve the long-term nutritional status, at least not in women.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

This nutritional intervention, which was included in a multifactorial multidisciplinary intervention, is inexpensive and relatively easy to implement. It has significant effects on complications but no long-term effect on nutritional parameters, at least not in women.

Dietary variety and its effect on food intake of elderly adults

BACKGROUND

Older people frequently have poor food intake. This present study investigated the effect of dietary variety on food intake in younger and older people.

METHODS

Eighteen young adults (mean age = 26 years) and 18 older adults (mean age = 70 years) consumed four consecutive courses of sandwiches on two occasions. In the plain treatment, each course of sandwiches was of the same type, while in the variety treatment four courses, each of a different type of sandwich, were served. Each time the participants were presented with a serving of sandwiches and asked to eat as much as they liked.

RESULTS

In the plain condition, the older adult group consumed more than their young counterparts. This situation was reversed for the variety condition when the young group ate more than the older adults. Interestingly, the older adult group ate more when a variety of sandwiches was presented. This may be contrary to what is predicted by the sensory-specific satiety model of eating behaviour.

CONCLUSIONS

This study suggests that presenting the older people with a varied meal may be a valid strategy to improve food intake in this group.

‘Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool’ predicts mortality and length of hospital stay in acutely ill elderly

Malnutrition and its impact on clinical outcome may be underestimated in hospitalised elderly as many screening procedures require measurements of weight and height that cannot often be undertaken in sick elderly patients. The ‘Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool’ (‘MUST’)has been developed to screen all adults, even if weight and/or height cannot be measured, enabling more complete information on malnutrition prevalence and its impact on clinical outcome to be obtained. In the present study, 150 consecutively admitted elderly patients (age 85 (sd 5·5) years) were recruited prospectively, screened with ‘MUST’ and clinical outcome recorded. Although only 56% of patients could be weighed, all (n 150) could be screened with ‘MUST’; 58% were at malnutrition risk and these individuals had greater mortality (in-hospital and post-discharge, P<0·01) and longer hospital stays (P=0·02) than those at low risk. Both ‘MUST’ categorisation and component scores (BMI, weight loss, acute disease) were significantly related to mortality (P<0·03). Those patients with no measured or recalled weight (‘MUST’ subjective criteria used) had a greater risk of malnutrition (P<0·002) than those who could be weighed and, within both groups, clinical outcome was worse in those at risk of malnutrition. The present study suggests that ‘MUST’ predicts clinical outcome in hospitalised elderly, in whom malnutrition is common (58%). In those who cannot be weighed, a higher prevalence of malnutrition and associated poorer clinical outcome supports the importance of routine screening with a tool, like ‘MUST’, that can be used to screen all patients.

Derivation and validation of a new global method for assessing nutritional status in patients with cirrhosis

Accurate assessments of nutritional status are difficult to obtain in patients with cirrhosis. The aim of this study was to devise and validate a global nutritional assessment scheme for use in this patient population. Measures of body mass index (BMI) and mid-arm muscle circumference (MAMC) were combined with details of dietary intake in a semistructured, algorithmic construct to provide a nutritional assessment scheme for use in patients with cirrhosis; evaluated individuals were classified as adequately nourished, moderately malnourished (or suspected to be), or severely malnourished. There was good interobserver agreement in the nutritional categorization of 50 patients with cirrhosis (34 men, 16 women) using this scheme (kappa = 0.79) and significant associations with the contributing objective variables--namely, BMI (Spearman's correlation r = -0.78; P < .001) and relative MAMC (r = -0.69; P < .001)--confirming its internal validity. There was a significant association between nutritional categorization in 20 patients with cirrhosis (10 men, 10 women) and estimates of total body protein obtained using a four-component model (r = -0.45; P = .046), confirming the external validity of the scheme. Finally, a significant association was found between poor nutritional status in 116 patients with cirrhosis (65 men, 51 women), followed for 14 to 52 months, and shorter subsequent survival (P = .0005), confirming the scheme's predictive validity. In conclusion, a global assessment scheme has been devised that provides a simple, reproducible, valid, and predictive method of assessing nutritional status in patients with cirrhosis.

Preoperative folate and homocysteine status in patients undergoing major surgery

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Patients with folate deficiency and elevated homocysteine (Hcy) levels have increased risk of cerebrovascular and cardiovascular disease. They may also be at increased risk of complications after surgery because nitrous oxide interferes with folate metabolism. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of folate deficiency and hyperhomocysteinemia in patients presenting for major surgery. We also tested the utility of a brief preoperative medical and dietary questionnaire to identify those with low folate or elevated Hcy levels.

METHODS

We enrolled 390 patients and obtained a preoperative fasting blood sample from each of the study participants (folate [n=386], homocysteine [n=387]).

RESULTS

Although only one patient had folate deficiency preoperatively (incidence +/-SD folate and Hcy concentrations were 23.7+/-5.2 nmol/l and 9.4+/-4.2 micromol/l, respectively. There was a negative correlation between folate and Hcy, r=-0.27, P<0.001. Multivariate analyses indicated that vegan status and folate supplementation prevented low folate status (P<0.05), while age of the patient, and history of heart failure and anaemia predicted elevated Hcy concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

Some factors identified by a brief medical and dietary questionnaire are associated with folate and homocysteine status. Hyperhomocysteinaemia occurs in about 7.5% of surgical patients; however, both low folate status and elevated Hcy concentration are less likely in those taking folate or vitamin B supplements. This has implications for patients undergoing nitrous oxide anaesthesia because of its inhibition of folate metabolism, and should prompt clinicians to consider folate and other nutritional supplementation before elective surgery.

Nutrition in patients receiving home care in Finland: tackling the multifactorial problem

This study describes the nutritional status of Finnish home care patients (n=178), their problems related to eating, digestion, and diet; their use of Meals on Wheels services; and informal caregivers' role in nutritional support. Half of the patients were at risk for malnutrition and 3% were malnourished according to Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) results. Most patients had problems with food intake, which were related to lower MNA scores. One-third of the participants had an unbalanced diet, and approximately half received assistance with shopping and food preparation from an informal caregiver. Home care patients' nutritional status, including all related aspects, such as shopping, food preparation, eating, and digestion, must be evaluated regularly and comprehensively.

Lower limb fracture, cognitive impairment and risk of subsequent malnutrition: a prospective evaluation of dietary energy and protein intake on an orthopaedic ward

OBJECTIVE

To report the dietary energy and protein intake of undernourished older adults (with and without cognitive impairment) admitted to hospital following a lower limb fracture and to determine whether dietary intakes met estimated requirements.

DESIGN

An observational study of a sequential sample.

SETTING

The orthopaedic ward of a South Australian metropolitan teaching hospital.

SUBJECTS

Sixty-eight patients aged > or =70 years screened as undernourished and admitted to hospital following lower limb fracture (50% cognitively impaired) provided 3 to 5 days of dietary data. MAJOR OUTCOME METHODS: Dietary energy and protein intake.

METHODS

Dietary assessment using plate waste methodology and snack record charts commenced within 6 days postinjury and continued for up to five consecutive days or until discharge. Estimated resting energy requirements were calculated and adjusted for activity equivalent to bed rest and physiological stress. Protein requirements were calculated as 1 g/kg/day. Cognition was assessed using the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire.

RESULTS

Cognitively impaired participants and those without cognitive impairment consumed, mean (95% CI) respectively, 3661 kJ/day (3201, 4121) versus 4208 kJ/day (3798, 4619) and 38 g (33, 44) versus 47 g (41, 52) protein/day. Cognitively impaired participants consumed mean (95% CI) 48% (43, 53) of estimated total energy expenditure and 78% (69, 87) of estimated protein requirements.

CONCLUSIONS

Orthopaedic fracture patients at greatest nutritional risk, including those with cognitive impairment, do not achieve estimated energy or protein requirements from diet alone. Effective methods of achieving requirements in this vulnerable group are needed before improvements in outcomes will be observed.

Poor nutritional habits are predictors of poor outcome in very old hospitalized patients

BACKGROUND

Malnutrition is prevalent in elderly populations. Recommended methods of nutritional screening are often too complicated and time-consuming for routine application in frail, very old, hospitalized patients.

OBJECTIVE

Our aims were to identify risk factors for development of malnutrition in very old hospitalized patients and to evaluate the total Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) score and MNA subscores as predictors of in-hospital and long-term mortality.

DESIGN

A prospective cohort study of patients aged > or =75 y was conducted in a geriatric hospital. Assessment included demographic, clinical, and laboratory data and cognitive, functional, and nutritional status. Follow-up was conducted for < or =2.7 y.

RESULTS

Of the 414 patients studied, only 73 (17.6%) were well-nourished. Low serum albumin and phosphorus concentrations, dementia, and cerebrovascular accident (CVA) were significant risk factors for malnutrition. Survival was significantly lower in malnourished patients and patients at risk of malnutrition than in well-nourished patients (P < 0.0001). Low MNA-3 subscores (dietary habits) were significantly correlated with laboratory indexes of malnutrition and were significantly lower in patients with infections, malignancy, pressure ulcers, dementia, recent orthopedic surgery, and CVA. Multivariate analysis showed that a low MNA-3 score was an independent predictor of mortality; scores <7.5 increased the risk of death 2.05-fold.

CONCLUSIONS

The prevalence of malnutrition was high in elderly hospitalized patients. Dietary habits were significant predictors of poor hospitalization outcome. A questionnaire on dietary habits can serve as a useful tool in assessing nutritional status and prognosis in elderly patients.

No correlation between mini-nutritional assessment (short form) scale and clinical outcomes in 73 elderly patients admitted for hip fracture

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Malnutrition in general and protein deficiency in particular, both upon admission and during the recovery period, may adversely influence the clinical outcome after hip fracture. This study investigates the relationship between nutritional status measured by the Mini-Nutritional Assessment short form (MNA-SF) and biological markers in elderly hip-fractured patients.

METHODS

A prospective study in a university hospital. The MNA-SF nutritional scale and laboratory values (serum albumin, cholesterol, total lymphocyte count) were assessed within three days after hip fracture surgery.

RESULTS

Seventy-three patients were included: 61 (84%) were women and 12 men. Mean age was 81.5+/-7.1 years. Inhospital mortality was 10%. The mean MNA-SF score was 11+/-0.5 (range 3-14); according to these values, 39 patients (53%) were at risk of malnutrition. MNA-SF scores were not significantly correlated to patients' laboratory values. Fourteen episodes of nosocomial infection were diagnosed in 11 patients, and 6 patients developed pressure ulcers during hospitalization.

CONCLUSIONS

MNA-SF test scale values reflect a clinical process in post-operative hip-fractured patients which is different from serum albumin, cholesterol or lymphocyte count.

Nutritional status and clinical outcomes of older patients in rehabilitation

BACKGROUND

Malnutrition is associated with poor outcomes in older adults and those admitted to rehabilitation may be particularly at risk. Objective To assess the nutritional status and outcomes of older adults in rehabilitation.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

We recruited 133 adults > or = 65 years from consecutive rehabilitation admissions. Nutritional status was assessed using the mini nutritional assessment, body mass index (BMI) and corrected arm muscle area (CAMA). Outcomes measured included length of stay, admission to higher level care, function and quality of life (QOL).

RESULTS

Sixty-two (47%) subjects were well nourished, 63 (47%) at risk of malnutrition and eight (6%) malnourished. Twenty-two (17%) and 27 (20%) were below the desirable reference values for BMI and CAMA respectively. Subjects at risk of malnutrition/malnourished had longer length of stay (P = 0.023) and were more likely to be admitted to higher level care (P < 0.05). These subjects also had poorer function on admission (P < 0.001) and 90 days (P = 0.002) and QOL on admission (P < 0.008) and 90 days (P = 0.001). Those with low CAMA were twice as likely to be admitted to higher level care (P < 0.05) and had poorer function at 90 days (P = 0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

Over half our sample was identified as at risk of malnutrition or malnourished and this was associated with poorer clinical outcomes.

Fast and simple screening for nutritional status in hospitalized, elderly people

BACKGROUND

Undernutrition has been frequently reported among hospitalized elderly patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mini nutrition assessment (MNA) and a screening sheet for malnutrition (SSM) by full nutritional assessment (FNA) in elderly people, and to construct a shorter screening method by combining important questions from MNA and SSM. Having a screening tool as fast and simple as possible could increase its use in clinical routines.

METHODS

FNA, MNA and SSM were carried out on 60 hospitalized patients (>65 years). Sensitivity and specificity for MNA and SSM were calculated in comparison with FNA. In order to construct a short and simple screening tool, questions from the two screening tools, which differed significantly between mal- and well-nourished patients, were used in a multivariate, stepwise linear regression. The regression model was simplified to be suitable in clinical routines.

RESULTS

Malnourishment was diagnosed by FNA in 58.3% of the elderly patients, with no gender difference. Body mass index, unintended weight loss, recent surgery and loss of appetite were predictors of malnutrition in the regression model (R(2) = 60.1%). The sensitivity and specificity of the simplified regression model were 89 and 88%, respectively, which was more precise than MNA (77 and 36%) and SSM (89 and 60%).

CONCLUSION

According to FNA, malnutrition is frequent in elderly hospitalized patients. Four questions are sufficient to conduct precise nutritional screening for malnutrition in elderly hospitalized patients. This new screening tool should be verified in other samples.

Malnutrition in hospital outpatients and inpatients: prevalence, concurrent validity and ease of use of the 'malnutrition universal screening tool' ('MUST') for adults

The 'malnutrition universal screening tool' ('MUST') for adults has been developed for all health care settings and patient groups, but ease of use and agreement with other published tools when screening to identify malnutrition requires investigation. The present study assessed the agreement and the prevalence of malnutrition risk between 'MUST' and a variety of other tools in the same patients and compared the ease of using these tools. Groups of patients were consecutively screened using 'MUST' and: (1) MEREC Bulletin (MEREC) and Hickson and Hill (HH) tools (fifty gastroenterology outpatients); (2) nutrition risk score (NRS) and malnutrition screening tool (MST; seventy-five medical inpatients); (3) short-form mini nutritional assessment (MNA-tool; eighty-six elderly and eighty-five surgical inpatients); (4) subjective global assessment (SGA; fifty medical inpatients); (5) Doyle undernutrition risk score (URS; fifty-two surgical inpatients). Using 'MUST', the prevalence of malnutrition risk ranged from 19-60% in inpatients and 30% in outpatients. 'MUST' had 'excellent' agreement (kappa 0.775-0.893) with MEREC, NRS and SGA tools, 'fair-good' agreement (kappa 0.551-0.711) with HH, MST and MNA-tool tools and 'poor' agreement with the URS tool (kappa 0.255). When categorisation of malnutrition risk differed between tools, it did not do so systematically, except between 'MUST' and MNA-tool (P=0.0005) and URS (P=0.039). 'MUST' and MST were the easiest, quickest tools to complete (3-5 min). The present investigation suggested a high prevalence of malnutrition in hospital inpatients and outpatients (19-60% with 'MUST') and 'fair-good' to 'excellent' agreement beyond chance between 'MUST' and most other tools studied. 'MUST' was quick and easy to use in these patient groups.