Plate waste producing situations on nursing wards.
This study examines the existence of a positive correlation of interferences during mealtime and the amount of plate waste. Textbooks prescribe a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. With an exploratory research design, data about the patient, his environment and plate waste were collected on a medical unit of an academic teaching hospital. Mealtime environmental conditions by no means met prescribed demands. The amount of plate waste correlated with movements made by laboratory and housekeeping personnel, visitors and physicians. Loss of appetite as well as related environmental factors are further discussed and elaborated.
Appetite↗