Sjuksköterskors erfarenheter av vårdinsatser inom nutritionsomvårdnad hos äldre : En litteraturbaserad studie

Sammanfattning: Background: Food and nutrition are primary aspects of health and recovery at illness. Malnutrition among elderly living in Sweden and in other countries around the world has not received enough attention. Malnutrition and its consequences have gained attention from the healthcare institutions and guidelines are created by national and international organizations to discover and treat patients who suffer or are at risk of malnutrition. The nurse has a responsibility for nutritional care, which include identification, prevention and treatment of malnutrition. Malnutrition might be a health hazard, but it can be avoided if it is adequately managed by medical professionals. Aim: The aim of the study was to illuminate nurses´ experiences of nutritional care among elderly who suffer from malnutrition or are at risk of malnutrition. Method: The chosen method is to contribute to evidence-based nursing based on analysis of qualitative research. Eight qualitative studies from 2009-2019 were included in the study. The selected studies were quality checked, analyzed and compiled. Results: The analysis of the data material resulted in two main themes and eight sub-themes. The main themes that emerged was 1) Deficiencies in information transfer and documentation. 2) Incomplete nutritional care. The eight sub-themes were 1) Lack of routine and knowledge for journal writing. 2) Insufficient communication between health professionals. 3) Inadequate assessment of nutritional status and action taken. 4) Unfavorable surroundings affect meals. 5) Lack of time, resources and prioritizing of nutritional care. 6) Poor collaboration between healthcare professionals. 7) The need for nutritional knowledge and 8) Lack of involvement of the elderly. Conclusion: The results showed that the nurse's effort in nutritional care among elderly patients is important. There is, however, a need of education in both documentation and knowledge in nutrition to provide more adequate nutritional care. This can lead to reduced risk of malnutrition among elderly patients and increase their overall health status.