Nutritional Care in German Hospitals - Results of a Survey Among Physicians

Abstract

Malnutrition affects 20-30% of hospitalized patients and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. Regular screening and multiprofessional nutrition teams are crucial for detection and treatment. The aim of this survey is to assess the nutritional medical care situation in German acute care hospitals.The online survey was conducted between 11/2022 and 08/2023, distributed through medical professional societies, and personalized for chief physicians registered in the German Hospital Registry. The survey is based on an instrument from Fulda University.182 physicians participated in the survey, with 53% indicating that their hospital has a nutrition team, which is most often affiliated with the gastroenterology department. In 88% of nutrition teams, a specialist physician, mostly a gastroenterologist, is involved. Common issues addressed by the nutrition teams include malnutrition, parenteral/enteral nutrition, and the transition process. In hospitals with nutrition teams, 83% conduct regular screening for malnutrition, compared to 47% in hospitals without nutrition teams. The most frequently used screening tool is the NRS-2002. In clinics with nutrition teams, 57% automatically involve the team when screening is positive. In facilities without nutrition teams, standardized procedures are often not possible due to staffing shortages.The study reveals an unequal nutritional medical care situation in German hospitals. Hospitals with nutrition teams screen more frequently for malnutrition. Improved financing and standardization are necessary to optimize the nutritional medical care situation.