Nutritional screening tools and anthropometric measures associate with hospital discharge outcomes in older people

Australas J Ageing. 2015 Mar;34(1):E1-6. doi: 10.1111/ajag.12130. Epub 2014 Jan 21.

Abstract

Aim: To examine the association of nutritional screening tools (NSTs) and anthropometric measures with hospital outcomes in older people.

Methods: In 172 patients aged ≥70 years admitted to a Geriatric Evaluation Management Unit (GEMU), nutritional status was measured using the Mini-Nutritional Assessment (MNA), MNA-short form (MNA-SF), Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI), Simplified Nutritional Appetite Questionnaire, calf circumference (CC), mid-arm circumference (MAC) and BMI.

Results: Malnutrition according to the MNA occurred in 53 (31%) patients. Functional change was associated with GNRI (Beta coefficient (β), 95% CI = 0.17, 0.001-0.33) and CC (β, 95% CI = 0.17, 0.01-0.33); GEMU length of stay was associated with MNA-SF-BMI (β, 95% CI = -0.02, -0.003 to -0.004) and MNA-SF-CC (β, 95% CI = -0.02, -0.003 to -0.001). MAC was associated with discharge to higher level of care (OR, 95% CI = 0.88, 0.81-0.96).

Conclusion: In hospitalised older people, admission NSTs and anthropometric measures associate with discharge outcomes.

Keywords: aged; geriatric assessment/methods; hospitalisation; nutritional assessment.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Observational Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Age Factors
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anthropometry*
  • Body Mass Index
  • Female
  • Geriatric Assessment / methods*
  • Humans
  • Length of Stay
  • Logistic Models
  • Male
  • Malnutrition / diagnosis*
  • Malnutrition / physiopathology
  • Nutrition Assessment*
  • Nutritional Status*
  • Odds Ratio
  • Patient Discharge*
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Time Factors