Catering Concerns
Article Abstract:
A new dietary standard is required for elderly people's homes. UK Department of Health (DoH) dietary reference values (DRV) are too low. Recommendations are based on estimated average requirements (EARs) and reference nutrient intakes (RNIs). Institutional diets in accordance with government figures will therefore be inadequate. Research has shown that a healthy population requires higher protein, vitamin and mineral intakes than recommended by the DoH. University of York Family Budget Unit, England has devised a 'modest-but-adequate' nutritional standard applicable to catering contracts.
Publication Name: Nursing Times
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0954-7762
Year: 1993
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A strategy to reduce laxative use among older people
Article Abstract:
Staff in a psychogeriatric ward decided that the treatment they were offering for chronic constipation was not effective, and made the problem worse. Laxatives, suppositories and enemas were undignified, expensive and time-consuming. Staff decided to record bowel movements to get an overview of each patient. More fibre was introduced onto the menu and patients encouraged to drink at least 1.5 litres of fluid per day. The food bill is 20 pence extra per day but the laxative bill is almost negligible and patients are no longer incontinent. Details of the laxative bill are given.
Publication Name: Nursing Times
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0954-7762
Year: 1997
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Know how: vitamins and minerals
Article Abstract:
Reference Nutrient Intake (RNI) values are the same for middle-aged and elderly people, but this situation may require review as more people live to an older age. Socio-psychological, physical and economic factors may affect the nutritional intakes of elderly people, so health professionals might consider prescribing nutritional supplements to prevent deficiency-related problems. RNI values for the most important micronutrients for middle-aged and elderly people are presented.
Publication Name: Nursing Times
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0954-7762
Year: 1997
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