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Biomedical subjects

S C Finn

Publications and source records attributed to S C Finn.

At least 37 records · Page 2Linked to original sources
PubMed1996

Malnutrition and clinical outcomes: the case for medical nutrition therapy.

Malnutrition is not a new or a rare problem. In studies involving more than 1,327 hospitalized adult patients, 40% to 55% were found to be either malnourished or at risk for malnutrition, and up to 12% were severely malnourished. Surgical patients with likelihood of malnutrition are two to three times more likely to have minor and major complications as well as increased mortality; and their length of stay can be extended by 90% compared with the stay of well-nourished patients. Hospital charges are reported to be from 35% to 75% higher for malnourished patients than for well-nourished patients. Obtaining data to assess the nutritional status of patients is essential to optimal patient care, especially for patients at high risk for malnutrition. Nutrition assessment can be done with readily available and relatively inexpensive methods. But it is not enough to assess and identify malnutrition. Outcomes are improved and costs are saved only when appropriate intervention follows. This article identifies many well-conducted, published studies that support the findings that health outcomes of malnourished patients can be improved and that overall use of resources can be reduced by nutrition counseling, oral diet and oral supplements, enteral formula delivered via tube, and parenteral nutrition support via central or peripheral line. Early nutrition assessment and appropriate nutrition intervention must be accepted as essential for the delivery of quality health care. Appropriately selected nutrition support can address the problem of malnutrition, improve clinical outcomes, and help reduce the costs of health care.

Health Care Costs↗
PubMed1994

Osteoporosis: visions for care and prevention--a conference report.

Osteoporosis, a bone-thinning disease that leads to fractures, affects 25 million Americans, mostly women. The good news is that this disease is preventable and treatable. Adequate nutrition, for example, is estimated to reduce the impact of osteoporosis by as much as one half. The bad news is that unless more attention is given to communicating preventive strategies, osteoporosis and its related costs will continue to escalate. To make osteoporosis a priority among health professionals and communicators, The American Dietetic Association, in cooperation with National Diary Council, held a conference on this subject in November 1993. Recognized national experts addressed the issue of osteoporosis from various perspectives. This article summarizes the information presented at this conference. Prevention of osteoporosis focuses on increasing peak bone mass, which is usually reached between the age of 30 to 35 years, and reducing bone loss in later years. Bone health is influenced by three major interacting factors: diet, exercise, and estrogen. To optimize bone health, accumulating scientific findings support intakes of calcium and vitamin D exceeding current Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs) for these nutrients. Unfortunately, most women in the United States, in particular female adolescents, do not consume the RDA for calcium. Although recommendations to prevent osteoporosis can be made, there are several obstacles to translating these recommendations into action. Examples include failure to inspire people to make lifestyle changes early in life and to provide understandable recommendations. To be facilitators of change and not just nutrition experts, dietitians and other health professionals need to overcome these obstacles and to effectively market the risks of and prevention strategies for osteoporosis.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Bone Density↗
PubMed1993

Health care reform--where ADA stands.

Few issues have galvanized the American public as dramatically as health care reform. Virtually everyone agrees that health care costs, quality, and accessibility require close examination and a prescription for change. Not everyone, however, agrees on the exact nature of this change. It is extremely important that we awaken the public and our policy makers to the vital role nutrition plays in the health care system. ADA is dedicated to this effort. Stay tuned as the health care reform plan unfolds. This effort is likely to be long term and will require your commitment, dedication, and energy to make nutrition services in health care reform a reality.

Communication↗
PubMed1992

Nutrient intakes and dietary patterns of older Americans: a national study.

To assess the dietary status of older Americans, a national household survey of food consumption practices of individuals 65 years of age and older was conducted in May-August, 1990. The design and methodology of the survey were modeled after those of the USDA's Continuing Survey of Food Intakes by Individuals (CSFII). Dietary information for 474 individuals (65 to 98 years of age) in 355 households was collected by interview (24-hour dietary recall). Analyzed indicators of dietary quality were energy (calorie) and nutrient intake, food group intake and frequency, and number of meals skipped. Results indicated that substantial percentages of those surveyed had inadequate intakes of energy and nutrients. Over 40% of men had intakes of vitamins A and E, calcium, and zinc below two-thirds the RDA. For women, over 40% had intakes of vitamin E, calcium, and zinc that were below two-thirds the RDA. Additionally, over 20% of older men and women skipped lunch. These data indicate that a large proportion of noninstitutionalized elderly Americans consume diets that fail to meet dietary standards.

Aged↗
PubMed1991

Image and role of the consultant dietitian in long-term care: results from a survey of three Midwestern States.

Consultant dietitians and other health care professionals in three states were surveyed to determine the image and role of consultant dietitians in long-term care. Data were derived from telephone interviews with nursing home personnel in Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. Chi 2 Analysis was used to determine whether health professionals' perceived image and job functions of consultant dietitians were significantly different from the perceptions of consultant dietitians. Overall, respondents held positive views of consultant dietitians. More than half of the respondents said the image of consultant dietitians had improved over the past 5 years. More than half of nursing directors, dietitians, dietary managers, and medical directors responded that consultant dietitians spent adequate time in facilities to do their jobs. Results of the study indicate that consultant dietitians believe that they are viewed by other health professionals as they actually are: competent, knowledgeable, well-respected, and involved in direct patient care functions. The next challenge is for more consultant dietitians to build on this base and become proactive, developing strong franchises and more opportunities for the profession.

Attitude of Health Personnel↗
PubMed1990

Nutrition in home care.

The well-nourished patient can better tolerate treatment, experiences fewer postoperative complications, and recovers more quickly from illness or injury. Although Americans realize the importance of good nutrition, malnutrition has been reported in 52-85% of long-term care patients. The Nutrition Screening Initiative has been launched to raise the consciousness level of both professionals and the public regarding nutrition and the value of nutritional screening.

Aged↗