Malnutrition risk and the need for dietetic intervention post COVID-19 infection on a care of the elderly rehab ward

ABSTRACT

Patients recovering from COVID-19 are at high risk of malnutrition, reduced nutritional intake and decline in muscle mass and strength with many requiring significant rehabilitation. The aim of this service evaluation is to quantify the risk of malnutrition and provide an overview of nutritional status and outcomes with dietetic input on a care of the elderly rehab ward. Demographics were collected from patient electronic records. Malnutrition risk, handgrip strength and Vitamin D levels were measured along with calculation of nutritional requirements. Of sixteen patients on the rehab wards post COVID-19, 81% (n=13) required dietetic input. [Formula presented] There was an average weight loss of 5.1kg (6.6%) (p=0.64). Eighty one percent had a reduction in their BMI, with 31% moving into a lower BMI category. Measurably reduced and impaired muscle function was evident when handgrip strength was measured. Eighty five percent required oral nutrition support. Additional advice for dysphagia, diabetes and renal disease was provided to 65% of patients. Following dietetic intervention, energy and protein intake improved in all patients. Sixty four percent were either insufficient or deficient in Vitamin D. The data obtained demonstrates the high prevalence of malnutrition in patients on a rehab ward post COVID-19. Furthermore the data highlights the clear need for dietetic intervention in this nutritionally vulnerable group to optimize nutritional status. References I. Stam. HJ, Stucki.G, Bickenbach.J. COVID-19 and post intensive care syndrome A call for action. Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine. 2020;52 (4)