Malnutrition is a significant health burden of the acute care admission, with prevalence varying from 13–46% in several studies(Reference Stratton, Hackston, Longmore, Dixon, Price and Stroud1). The economic and healthcare implications of malnutrition are well recognized. Malnutrition is associated with increased in hospital stay and mortality (hospital, 3 and 6 month)(Reference Stratton, King, Stroud and Jackson2). Additionally, malnourished patients are at increased risk of impaired wound healing and electrolyte imbalance. In recognition of this issue, NICE (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence) has issued guidance regarding nutritional support in adults in 2007(3). It advocates the use of well validated screening tools, such as the MUST (Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool) questionnaire, to identify malnutrition in patients on admission. However, there are few studies reflecting actual usage of the questionnaire in daily practice. For example, one published audit showed 79% of patients were screened, with only 39% screened at 24 hours(Reference Barthorpe, McLaughlin and Kuczynska4).
A study was conducted in an acute surgical ward, auditing the use of the MUST questionnaire on admission. Over a 2 month period, the percentage of patients with BMIs (body mass index) and MUST scores documented was noted. The number of patients started on supplementation as a result, was also recorded. After the first round of audit, simple interventions focusing of the multi disciplinary team approach to increasing uptake of the MUST questionnaire were implemented. The results of the audit was presented to the medical team as well as the nursing staff with discussions to raise awareness. A reaudit was conducted showing significant improvement (p<0.05, Chi squared test) in measurement of the MUST score (refer to table 1).
In conclusion, use of MUST questionnaires is an important initial screening tool for malnutrition on admission. However, a multi disciplinary team involving nurses and medical staff must take responsibility for MUST completion. Poor uptake of the questionnaire can hamper appropriate supplementation. From this audit, simple interventions involving different members of the team can improve outcomes. By increasing uptake of the questionnaire, further data can be gathered regarding the implications of regular nutritional screening.
