Quem Nutre? Uma pesquisa sobre as EMTNs do Brasil

Abstract

Introduction: The excellence of Nutritional Therapy (NT) for hospitalized patients requires the existence of a Multiprofessional Nutrition Therapy Team (EMTN). The implementation of a EMTN in Brazilian hospitals is mandatory according to the National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA), since the publication of Ordinance 272 of 1998. The EMTN must be constituted by at least one doctor, one dietitian, one nurse and one pharmacist, qualified and with specific training in NT. Despite all efforts to develop NT in Brazil, the prevalence of malnutrition remains high. NT when performed by EMTN is associated with reduced complications and costs. The presence of EMTN still does not seem to be the reality of all Brazilian hospitals. Objective: The present study aims, by means of an electronic questionnaire, to determine the existence and the current situation of the EMTN in public and private hospitals in Brazil and to define the profile of the professionals who work in the EMTN. Methods: Study carried out using a survey-type electronic questionnaire. The REDCap program was used to record responses. Results: 115 Brazilian hospitals participated, of which 80% declared having EMTN, being present in all regions of the country, with greater prevalence in the Southeast region and in large hospitals. Regarding the use of NT, it was found that institutions with EMTN have a higher average use of Enteral NT (31.9 patients) and Parenteral NT (4.3 patients). There was also a greater use of oral supplements in hospitals with EMTN (37 patients) when compared to hospitals without EMTN (18.4 patients).In almost half of the institutions, work at EMTN is not the exclusive activity of these professionals. Conclusion: EMTN are not yet a reality in all large hospitals in Brazil. A broader study can help to clarify this scenario and propose strategies for the strengthening of NTMS and NT.