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Nutrition support teams--a 1983 survey.
Summary
Nutrition support teams (NST) are growing and healthy, though some physicians show skepticism. These multidisciplinary teams are common in private hospitals, with other professionals offering supportive, albeit reserved, attitudes.
Area of Science:
- Hospital Administration
- Clinical Nutrition
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Nutrition support teams (NST) are integral to patient care.
- Understanding their characteristics and impact is crucial for healthcare optimization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey the characteristics of hospitals with NST.
- To examine the structure and function of NST.
- To assess coworker attitudes towards NST.
Main Methods:
- A mailed questionnaire was distributed to 521 identified NST in US hospitals.
- Data were collected on hospital characteristics, NST structure, function, and coworker attitudes.
- A response rate of 51.6% (267 hospitals) was achieved.
Main Results:
- NST were most prevalent in 200-500 bed private, nonprofit hospitals.
- Financial arrangements and scope of services varied significantly.
- Physician skepticism was noted, while other professionals were generally supportive with reservations.
Conclusions:
- NST are generally in a healthy state of growth.
- Developing nutritional expertise and productive teamwork are key concerns.
- Addressing physician skepticism is important for NST success.