The prevalence of malnutrition in elderly hip fracture patients
Hanger, H.C.; Smart, E.J.; Merrilees, M.J.; Frampton, C.M.
New Zealand Medical Journal 112(1084): 88-90
1999
ISSN/ISBN: 0028-8446 PMID: 10210293 Document Number: 509573
66 elderly patients (mean age 81.5 years) admitted to Christchurch Hospital, New Zealand with a fracture of the proximal femur over a 4-month period were recruited (1966). Nutritional indices (anthropometric measurements, serum albumin and pre-albumin) were measured within 3 days of admission. 42% of patients had at least 2, and 9% had 3, indicators of protein-energy malnutrition present on admission. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of malnutrition between patients <80 years and those patients 80 years and over. Patients residing in an institution had lower mean protein reserves, as indicated by lower corrected arm muscle area (P=0.003) and pre-albumin levels (P=0.09), than those living in the community. A drink (Ensure Plus and Fortisip), rather than a pudding or biscuit, was the preferred protein and energy supplement form. It is concluded that protein-energy malnutrition is common in elderly New Zealanders who fracture their femur. The prevalence is comparable to overseas data.