Assessment of technical knowledge on oral nutritional therapy between physicians and the nursing team of a private institution

Abstract

Introduction: Malnutrition affects an average of 20-80% of cancer patients, leading to an impaired healing process, increased infection rates and hospital costs, and negative impacts on clinical results. Oral nutritional supplements (ONS) help to increase the patients caloric and protein supplies, promoting recovery of nutritional status. In order to have good adherence to the ONS, it is necessary that the multidisciplinary team assigned is aligned with regard to the information transferred to the patient. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the technical knowledge about oral nutritional therapy (ONT) among physicians and the nursing staff at a private institution. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study. The physicians and residents as well as the nursing staff who work in clinical patient care were invited to answer a semi-structured questionnaire to assess their technical knowledge regarding ONT. Results: This study evaluated 105 professionals. Most physicians and nursing staff stated that ONS is a food supplement. Although they reported not having had technical training on the subject, most of them felt capable of prescribing and providing guidance participants neglected symptoms and conditions relevant to the nutritional status of the patient, such ascites, enteral nutritional therapy and home parenteral nutrition, concomitant chemotherapy/radiotherapy, and emesis. Conclusion: Information about ONS among medical and nursing professionals varies greatly. Interdisciplinary technical training is essential for the success of ONT as a tool for preventing and combating malnutrition.

Keywords

• malnutrition
• oncology service, hospital
• nutrition therapy
• patient care team
• dietary supplements