Survey on structure and performance of nutrition-support teams in Germany

Interdisciplinary nutrition-support teams (NSTs) can improve the efficacy of clinical nutrition. The purpose of this survey was to investigate the prevalence, and structure of German NSTs.

Hospitals in Germany with more that 250 beds were screened for the existence of NSTs. Eligible NSTs were interviewed about structural characteristics, administration of clinical nutrition and quality control in a face-to-face manner using a standardised questionnaire.

A total of 47 NSTs existed in Germany revealing a prevalence of 5.6%. Their main activities were creating nutritional regimens (100%), education (98%) and monitoring nutrition therapy (96%). Twenty-two of NST-physicians (50%) had a specific education as compared to 20.9% NST-nurses and 24% NST-dietitians. Only 12.7% of physicians and 17% of dieticians in comparison to 55.3% of nurses received funding support. Improvement of clinical nutrition by means of increased use of enteral nutrition and special diets was indicated by 72%, 23%, respectively. Some NSTs indicated a reduction of complications (38.3%) and cost-saving (34%) since their establishment.

There is a low prevalence of interdisciplinary NSTs in Germany. Standards of practice, development of guidelines in clinical nutrition and better documentation in NSTs are necessary. Special efforts should be aimed at education of NST members and financing of teams.