Nutrition for patients in hospital

(Waitzberg et al 2001). It is evident that the complex problem of poor nutrition in hospitals calls for major improvements. This issue has been addressed by the Department of Health (DH) (2007), which identified priority areas for action: raising awareness; ensuring accessible guidance; encouraging nutritional screening; promoting provision of and access to relevant training; clarifying standards; and strengthening inspection and regulation. All healthcare professionals should be aware of the nutritional needs of patients and the overall importance of nutrition in maintaining optimum health. Ward nurses, by virtue of their close contact with patients and their opportunity to instigate measures to screen for and prevent malnutrition, have a pivotal part to play in this regard. This article explores the role of nurses in reducing the prevalence of malnutrition and enhancing nutritional support for hospitalised patients.