The Effect of Malnutrition on Recovery Outcomes Among Elderly Patients in Federal Medical Centre, Lafia
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Background of the Study
Malnutrition is a significant concern among elderly patients, particularly in healthcare settings where nutritional intake directly affects recovery outcomes. Aging is associated with physiological changes that impact dietary intake, including reduced appetite, impaired nutrient absorption, and chronic illnesses that increase nutritional demands (World Health Organization [WHO], 2024). Malnutrition among older adults is linked to longer hospital stays, delayed wound healing, weakened immune response, and higher mortality rates (Jones et al., 2023).
In hospital settings, the role of nutrition in patient recovery has gained increasing attention, with studies indicating that undernourished patients have poorer health outcomes compared to well-nourished individuals (Smith & Patel, 2023). Elderly patients are particularly vulnerable due to pre-existing conditions, mobility issues, and cognitive decline, which may further exacerbate nutritional deficiencies (Taylor et al., 2024). Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Lafia, caters to a growing elderly population, making it crucial to examine how malnutrition influences their recovery and hospital discharge outcomes.
Understanding the impact of malnutrition on elderly patient recovery at FMC Lafia is essential for developing interventions that enhance nutritional support and improve patient care strategies.
Statement of the Problem
Despite the recognized importance of proper nutrition in patient recovery, malnutrition remains a prevalent but often underdiagnosed condition among elderly patients (Bello & Musa, 2023). Studies indicate that hospitals often focus on treating primary medical conditions while overlooking nutritional assessments and interventions, resulting in prolonged recovery times and increased healthcare costs (Ibrahim et al., 2024).
At FMC Lafia, there is limited research assessing the direct impact of malnutrition on elderly patient outcomes. Without such data, healthcare providers may not fully understand the extent to which nutritional deficiencies hinder patient recovery, leading to suboptimal management approaches. This study seeks to evaluate the effect of malnutrition on recovery outcomes among elderly patients at FMC Lafia, highlighting areas for nutritional intervention and policy improvements.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the prevalence of malnutrition among elderly patients at FMC Lafia.
2. To determine the effect of malnutrition on the recovery rate and length of hospital stay among elderly patients.
3. To identify strategies for improving nutritional support in elderly patient care.
Research Questions
1. What is the prevalence of malnutrition among elderly patients at FMC Lafia?
2. How does malnutrition affect recovery outcomes and hospital stay duration among elderly patients?
3. What strategies can be implemented to improve nutritional care for elderly patients?
Research Hypotheses
1. Malnutrition is prevalent among elderly patients at FMC Lafia.
2. Malnourished elderly patients experience slower recovery and prolonged hospital stays.
3. Implementing targeted nutritional interventions improves recovery outcomes among elderly patients.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study will focus on elderly patients admitted to FMC Lafia, examining their nutritional status and its effect on recovery outcomes. Limitations may include variations in dietary intake, underlying health conditions, and challenges in obtaining accurate dietary history data.
Definitions of Terms
• Malnutrition: A condition resulting from inadequate or excessive nutrient intake, affecting physical and physiological functions.
• Recovery Outcomes: Measures of patient improvement, including hospital stay duration, wound healing, and overall health status post-treatment.
• Elderly Patients: Individuals aged 60 years and above receiving medical care.
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