Monitoring/Evaluation in Nutritional Therapy for People with Gastrointestinal Complaints: Online Survey with Dietitians

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Dietary interventions are part of the therapy approach in gastrointestinal disorders. However, guidance on what outcomes to assess (in the form of a core outcome set) for dietitians to demonstrate the effectiveness of their interventions is lacking. This study provides preliminary work for the development of a core outcome set to systematically assess outcomes of nutrition therapy in clients with gastrointestinal complaints by examining how monitoring/evaluation are conducted by dietitians. Methods This is a quantitative online survey for dietitians to assess the current situation around the globe concerning monitoring and evaluation. An online survey with 26 questions divided into six sections (rated importance, implementation, resources/obstacles, instrument requirements, statistical questions and experiences with the Nutrition Care Process) was developed. The questionnaire was available in English, French and German. Results In total 740 responses were analysed. Monitoring/evaluation of clients with gastrointestinal symptoms was rated by 98% to be quite important to very important. The systematic implementation of monitoring and evaluation according to a concept/model was rated by 57% as 'rather often' to 'very often/always'. Conclusion Dietitians are aware of the importance of the measurability of dietetic interventions. The most dominant barriers are lacking time in daily practice and lack of a suitable monitoring/evaluation instrument. A suitable core outcome set in the field of gastrointestinal complaints is needed to increase systematic monitoring/evaluation.