Implementation of a multidisciplinary nutritional assessment program.

Depending on the severity of malnutrition, protein depletion is associated with general debilitation, inanition, slow healing of wounds, delayed convalescence, increased susceptibility to infection, and other pathophysiologic conditions. In an effort to decrease the incidence and severity of these complications, Hermann Hospital and the University of Texas Medical School at Houston have implemented a comprehensive nutritional assessment program to identify clinical and subclinical malnutrition and to implement aggressive, effective therapy. A multidisciplinary team approach to nutritional assessment, therapy, and research can lead to an increased awareness of the importance of nutritional support and optimal nutritional care for the hospitalized patient under all conditions at all times.