Representations of Oral Nutritional Supplementation (ONS) in Hospitals : Gender differences_observational Study

Over 30% of hospitalized patients are malnourished. These figures range from 20% to 60% in geriatric units. Undernutrition results either from a decrease in energy intake, an increase in needs, an increase in losses or a combination of these three causes. As a factor in mortality, morbidity and lengthening the time of hospital stays, undernutrition induces health costs 45 to 102% higher than a person who is not undernourished. The nutritional management of patients initially includes hygieno-dietary advice, then the implementation of an oral nutritional supplementation (ONS). A recent study conducted by our teams highlighted the low ONS consumption among women compared to men (39.48% vs 73.41%). Interviews with patients showed that 13 out of 17 had a negative opinion of ONS.

The aim of this study is to show, on a larger scale, whether ONS consumption differs according to sex and if so, to highlight the obstacles to this consumption through the implementation of semi-directive interviews with patients. Ultimately, this research will lead to the implementation of alternative strategies to improve ONS consumption and to a better understanding of the obstacles to ONS consumption.