Open Access
01-11-2024 | Research
Documentation of anthropometrics in people with cancer: a cross-site collaboration audit in four hospital settings in the UK
Authors:
F. Tabacchi, R. Oberai, K. Parmar, L. Oxley, S. Coe, V. Iatridi, J. Tammam, E. Watson, H. Wanstall
Published in:
Supportive Care in Cancer
|
Issue 11/2024
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Abstract
Background
Malnutrition is a significant risk for patients during cancer treatment. Neglecting to monitor or provide timely dietetic support can result in lower tolerance to treatments and reduced quality of life. This audit aimed to assess the completeness and accuracy of the documentation of anthropometric measurements in medical records and dietetic referral practices across four day-treatment units (DTUs) in England.
Methodology
Data were collected from electronic patient records of 100 patients in each DTU attending for systemic anti-cancer treatment (SACT) over a 2-week period. Data collected included patients’ demographics, anthropometric data, referrals to dietitians, and whether the patients referred had a MUST score ≥ 2, which was calculated by the authors.
Results
Findings revealed that weights and heights were documented for 58–85% and 94–98% of patients attending DTUs, respectively. On average, 55% (range of 7–85%) of patients had their body mass index (BMI) documented on the day of SACT. The Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) was rarely completed (≤ 3% in each centre). Dietetic referral practices varied across centres.
Conclusions
Findings highlight the need to improve anthropometric documentation practices in cancer centres, in order to allow better monitoring of malnutrition risk and early nutritional support interventions when needed.