Relationship between initial nutritional status and functional independence measures at discharge in subacute stroke

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Nutritional Science
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Nutritional status is crucial for recovery in elderly patients.
• Understanding factors influencing functional independence after hospitalization is vital for effective care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between nutritional status upon admission and functional independence at discharge in elderly patients (≥ 65 years).
• To identify predictors of discharge Functional Independence Measure (FIM™) scores in a convalescent ward setting.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 205 patients discharged from a convalescent ward.
• Analysis included demographic data, stroke type, admission FIM™, Body Mass Index (BMI), Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT), and Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI).
• Univariate and multiple regression analyses were used to predict discharge FIM™.

Main Results:

• Admission FIM™, length of stay (LOS), age, and onset-to-admission interval were significant predictors of discharge FIM™.
• While patients with poor nutritional status had longer hospital stays, their FIM™ gain was comparable to well-nourished patients.
• Nutritional status indicators (BMI, CONUT, GNRI) were significant in univariate but not in the final multiple regression model for discharge FIM™.

Conclusions:

• Nutritional status at admission does not significantly influence the Functional Independence Measure (FIM™) score at discharge in a convalescent ward.
• Adequate rehabilitation is essential for patients with subacute stroke, irrespective of their initial nutritional status.