Assessment of nutritional status on the basis of the mini nutritional assessment (MNA) questionnaire in patients on the internal medicine ward.

BACKGROUND

The inadequate nutritional status of hospitalized patients leading to the malnutrition is one of the crucial clinical problems.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to assess nutritional status of patients on the basis of the mini nutritional assessment (MNA) questionnaire.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group included 120 patients staying on the internal medicine ward. The average age for female and male was 65±9.7 and 63±8.4 years, respectively. To assess malnutrition the anthropometric measurements and the MNA questionnaire was conducted.

RESULTS

The average MIS (Malnutrition Indicator Score) value in female and male was 25.0 ± 3.0. Among 29% of women and 18.2% of men the risk of malnutrition occurrence was noted. The incorrect values of BMI (body mass index) were observed more frequently in male compared to female (84.0% vs. 67.0%). Incorrect values of the MAC (mid arm circumference) and CC (calf circumference) were found respectively in 6.6 % and 10.5% of female and in 2.3% of male. 55.3% of women and 75% of men declared taking more than 3 prescription drugs a day. In women were observed a significantly higher deficiency of dairy products, meat, fish, or poultry as well as meals containing legume plants or eggs per week compared to men (21.0% vs. 4.5%). An insufficient daily intake of vegetables was declared by 20.4% of men and 15.8% of women.

CONCLUSIONS

The occurrence of malnutrition or its risk was observed in about a quarter of studied hospitalized patients. The malnutrition was worsened by a reported loss of appetite, a significant number of drugs being taken, and inadequate nutrition among the patients.