Wiley researchers observed 601 meals in four hospital wards during 2013 and made the following interesting findings:
· Mealtime interruptions did not significantly impact patients' meal intake;
· How patients were positioned--ideally sitting up or out of bed did have an impact;
· Whether they received mealtime assistance in a timely manner also affected intake.
"Hospital mealtimes can be busy and chaotic for staff
and patients alike. This study suggests that focusing on correctly positioning
and helping patients with their meal can make a difference to the amount that
patients eat, which ultimately may help them on their way to a faster
recovery," said Dr. Adrienne Young, lead author of the study.
See Also: Healthy Options Leads to Rise in Hospital Retail Meals
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Source: Eureka
Image Credit: Food Management