Protein-Energy Undernutrition Among Elderly Hospitalized Patients: A Prospective Study

Context: Numerous studies have identified strong correlations between the severity of nutritional deficits and an increased risk of subsequent morbid events among the hospitalized elderly, but whether inadequate nutrient intake during hospitalization contributes to such nutritional deficits or the risk of adverse outcomes is not known. Objectives: To identify the distribution of average daily nutrient intake among the nonter–minally ill hospitalized elderly, ascertain what factors contribute to persistently low intakes, and determine whether the adequacy of nutrient intake correlates with the risk of mortality. Design: Prospective cohort study conducted from 1994 to 1997. Setting: University-affiliated Department of Veterans Affairs hospital. Patients: A total of 497 patients 65 years or older (mean [SD] age, 74 [6] years; 97% male; 86% white) with a length of stay of 4 days or more. Main Outcome Measures: Daily in-hospital nutrient intake, in-hospital mortality, and 90-day mortality. Results: A total of 102 patients (21%) had an average daily in-hospital nutrient intake of