Assessment of the state of nutrition of patients hospitalized in the Department of General Surgery on the basis of NRS 2002 form

Introduction: The aim of this assessment is to determine the current state of nutrition and the demand for nutrients as well as to evaluate the risk connected with the abnormalities. Its result should constitute an integral part of the case history and should modify the planned treatment. Aim of the study: The assessment of the state of nutrition on the basis of the NRS 2002 form and analysis of the correlation existing between the patient's state of nutrition and his age, BMI, main disease, coexistent diseases and the course of treatment. Material and methods: The study group consisted of 103 consecutive patients. They underwent screening assessment of the state of nutrition which took into account their age, sex, medical history as far as loss of weight is concerned, their BMI, main disease and coexistent diseases. Results: Malnutrition has been observed in the case of 1/3 of patients. Vascular diseases (47%) and digestive system neoplasm (22%) constitute the most frequent diseases among the malnourished patients. Every second patient admitted on an emergency basis and every third patient admitted on a planned basis showed the symptoms of malnutrition. The average age of malnourished patients was 68 years, whereas that of properly nourished ones was 54 years. The hospitalization period in the case of malnourished patients is two times longer than in the case of those properly nourished. Complications occurred among 30% of malnourished patients and among 10% of properly nourished patients. Conclusions: 1. Patients admitted for treatment should undergo screening assessment of the state of nutrition. 2. An increased risk of malnutrition occurs more often in elderly people and those hospitalized in "emergency" mode. 3. Malnutrition prolongs the time of hospitalisation, affecting the therapeutic effect in biological and mental aspects. 4. Malnutrition increases the frequency of complications of diseases, causing an increase in the costs of treatment.