Managing the nutritional needs of palliative care patients

Abstract

The nutritional needs of patients receiving palliative care should be routinely assessed, taking into account disease trajectory and nutrition-related symptoms. The social and emotional aspects of eating and drinking should also be acknowledged; as should the distress that weight loss and anorexia engenders in patients and their families. Practical strategies to optimise nutritional intake are discussed. Open and sensitive communication of patients' needs and wishes is essential, especially when discussing complementary nutrition approaches. A holistic, multidisciplinary approach is key to meeting nutritional needs, and the goals of nutritional intervention should be regularly reviewed in the light of disease progression.