Addressing Malnutrition in Elderly Patients Using Biochemical Markers: The Role of Nurses in Nutrition Screening and Intervention

Document Type : Review Articles

Authors

1 Ministry of Health, Forensic Medical Services Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

2 Maternity and Children's Hospital in Hafer albatan, Saudi Arabia

3 Irada Mental Health Hospital in Jazan, Jazan Health Cluster, Saudi Arabia

4 Jazan Health Cluster, Jazan, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia

5 Western Janadriyah Health Center, Riyadh Health Cluster 2, Saudi Arabia

6 Al Adamah Health Care Center Dammam, Eastern Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia

7 King Khalid Hospital -Al-Haytham Health Center,Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia

8 Al Yamamah Health Care Center First Settlement, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia

9 Riyadh Health Cluster 1 - Wadi Ad-Dawasir general hospital, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia

10 Riyadh Third health cluster, Eradh complex for mental in Riyadh, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia

11 Riyadh First Health Cluster, Saudi ArabiaRiyadh First Health Cluster, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia

12 Qaisumah General Hospital, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia

13 Al-Rawdah Health Center. Senior Nursing Specialist, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia

14 Sabya General Hospital Jazan Health Clustar, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia

15 Branch of the ministry of health in Riyadh region, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia

16 Erada and Mental Health Hospital, Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia

17 Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: A common problem among senior people, malnutrition greatly affects their quality of life, functional level, and health results. The complexity of malnutrition in this population calls for a multifarious strategy for nutrition screening and treatment.

Aim: This study aims to explore the critical role of nursing staff in identifying malnutrition and implementing effective nutritional interventions for elderly patients.

Methods: With an eye on definitions of malnutrition, biomarkers, related hazards, management techniques, and present guidelines and recommendations, a thorough literature study was undertaken. The study looks at the constraints and obstacles nursing staff members encounter in this regard as well as the nursing interventions required to solve malnutrition—including screening methods and tailored care plans.

Results: Results show that although many medical experts evaluate nutritional status using biochemical markers, these can be deceptive, particularly in very unwell patients. The study emphasizes the need of include physical evaluations and patient-centered strategies to more precisely spot malnutrition. Improving patient outcomes proved to depend critically on nursing interventions including regular nutritional screening, dietary modification instruction, and working with dietitians. Notwithstanding these suggestions, time restrictions, lack of expertise, and inadequate resources all impede successful application.

Conclusion: The results underscore the essential role of nurses in the early identification and management of malnutrition among elderly patients. Enhancing nursing education and training related to nutrition can significantly improve referral rates and intervention efficacy. Addressing the existing limitations will facilitate better care and optimize nutritional support for vulnerable populations

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Volume 67, Issue 13 - Serial Number 13
In Loving Memory of Late Professor Doctor ””Mohamed Refaat Hussein Mahran””
December 2024
Pages 1631-1643
  • Receive Date: 12 November 2024
  • Revise Date: 18 December 2024
  • Accept Date: 18 December 2024