Nutrition status is frequently compromised in the geriatric
trauma patient, which can contribute to functional
decline.Hypermetabolism, malnutrition preinjury, long
periods of nothing by mouth status, cervical collars,
braces, bed rest, pain, and injuries that effect chewing
and swallowing can lead to insufficient nutrition after
trauma.On the TTU, a registered dietician participates
in Collaborative Rounds, with an increased focus on geriatric
trauma patients to reduce their risk of malnutrition
during hospitalization. As a result, interventions can be
implemented immediately to reduce the geriatric trauma
patient’s risk of malnutrition and resulting functional decline
or pressure ulcers. TTU NICHE nurses developed
education on the risks of malnutrition after trauma as well
as during hospitalization, and provided a review of all
hospital nutritional supplement options available. After
the rollout of education, nurses began initiating orders
for supplements on admission for all geriatric trauma patients,
unless contraindicated.