November is National Hospice/Palliative Care Month and a great time to discuss the role of the Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. I've often been asked,"Why does someone who qualifies for hospice services need good nutrition?" Keep in mind that the role of hospice is to keep the patient as comfortable as possible. One way to keep a patient comfortable is to work with the patient and family to provide the patient with sufficient protein to maintain skin integrity. Pressure areas are a source of pain.
There are many ways to increase or attempt to maintain protein level for the hospice patient. My preference is high-calorie, high-protein beverages. There are many recipes that can be used to provide considerably more variety than commercial supplements. Check out the 30 high-calorie, high-protein recipes in Flavorful Fortified Food - Recipes to Enrich Life. These recipes have been tested with actual hospice patients and have received high approval. The variety is expanded using variations that are provided with each recipe. There is bound to be a number of recipes to meet the primary criteria - provide the patient with a variety of flavors they like, while providing, calories, protein, and assisting in maintaining hydration. Check out the sample recipes .
There are many ways to increase or attempt to maintain protein level for the hospice patient. My preference is high-calorie, high-protein beverages. There are many recipes that can be used to provide considerably more variety than commercial supplements. Check out the 30 high-calorie, high-protein recipes in Flavorful Fortified Food - Recipes to Enrich Life. These recipes have been tested with actual hospice patients and have received high approval. The variety is expanded using variations that are provided with each recipe. There is bound to be a number of recipes to meet the primary criteria - provide the patient with a variety of flavors they like, while providing, calories, protein, and assisting in maintaining hydration. Check out the sample recipes .
Thanks to all the Registered Dietitian Nutritionists who work in hospice and palliative care! Your efforts and compassion are greatly appreciated.
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