Aims & Objectives This ethics approved study aimed to demonstrate improved food service satisfaction and nutritional intake of oncology/haematology inpatients, based on a previously developed ‘Supersnack’ midmeal program3.
Methods At baseline, control group participants were assessed for their 24 hour nutrient intake by direct observation and food service satisfaction by a validated questionnaire. A Supersnack food service model was developed based on patient preferences indicated in participant focus groups. Following implementation of Supersnacks, 24 hour nutrient intake through direct observation and food service satisfaction assessment were repeated. Data collected included participant demographics, energy and protein intake, nutritional status, food service satisfaction and cost of implementation.
Results Thirty-seven patients consented to participate (control = 13, pilot = 24). The pilot group was significantly younger and had significantly higher estimated energy and protein requirements. Mealtime observation of participant food intake demonstrated a struggle to meet estimated nutrition requirements, with intake of only 65-75% of energy requirements and 64-67% of protein requirements met. Offering a Supersnack food service model costing approximately $3.55, per patient, per midmeal, resulted in significantly increased energy and protein intake at morning and afternoon tea times, with an average difference of 1.1MJ and 10g of protein, (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences observed in overall patient food satisfaction; however, qualitative comments indicated positive feelings about the initiative.
Conclusion Results suggest a Supersnack midmeal food service program is a cost-effective strategy to improve the nutritional intake and assist prevention of malnutrition in oncology inpatients.