Providing nutrition advice in the oncology setting: A survey of current practice, awareness of guidelines and training needs of Irish healthcare professionals in three hospitals.

Abstract

To determine the current practices of Irish healthcare professionals working in the oncology setting of three hospitals in the north-west of Ireland with regard to nutrition screening, provision of nutrition advice and training needs. This cross-sectional study distributed a questionnaire to healthcare professionals in the oncology departments of three hospitals between November 2018 and April 2019. Data were analysed using SPSS, and one open-ended question underwent thematic analysis. Fifty-one individuals completed the survey. 98.1% rated nutrition as very or critically important in cancer management. 74.5% nutritionally screen inpatients while only 17.6% screen outpatients. The majority (86.3%) provide nutrition advice to patients, yet only 19.6% collect data on nutrition status. Doctors and nurses report low levels of confidence and lack of awareness of guidelines. 78.4% of respondents were interested in further training in oncology nutrition, preferably through a conference study day. Respondents reported that early nutrition intervention and integration into current practice is important, there is a current lack of resources and they recognised a need for different interventions depending on cancer type and stage. Current practice varies; however, positive attitudes towards nutrition and interest in additional training were found.