05 February 2026 : Clinical Research
Optimizing Clinical Nutrition Management for Elderly Hospitalized Patients: Current Practices and Insights
Boshi Wang A 1*, Lin Shao B 1, Xue Zhang D 1, Shilong Zhao F 1, Peng Liu D 1DOI: 10.12659/MSM.950681
Med Sci Monit 2026; 32:e950681
Table 1 Summary of nutritional intervention schedule and methods.
| Intervention type | Components/description | Delivery method | Duration/frequency | Criteria for implementation | Energy supply/notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Health Education | Personalized dietary guidance, correction of improper eating habits, and formulation of individualized meal plans based on hospital canteen distribution | Face-to-face counseling by dietitians | At initial consultation and follow-up as needed | All patients receiving nutrition consultation | Focus on balanced macronutrient intake and food timing |
| Enteral Nutrition (EN) | Oral nutritional supplements (ONS) or tube feeding (nasogastric/nasojejunal) based on patient tolerance and swallowing function | Oral or via feeding tube | ≥3 consecutive days | Patients unable to meet energy/protein needs through diet alone | Energy supply >41.84 kJ (10 kcal)/(kg·d) |
| Parenteral Nutrition (PN) | Parenteral nutrient solutions (amino acids, glucose, lipids, electrolytes, micronutrients) | Central venous catheter or peripheral vein | ≥3 consecutive days | Patients with contraindications to EN or inadequate enteral intake | Energy supply >41.84 kJ (10 kcal)/(kg·d) |