Adherence, tolerance, and patterns of use of an oral adapted texture nutritional formula in malnourished patients with dysphagia

Abstract

Introduction

Adherence to nutritional medical treatments is essential for attaining clinical benefits. Yet, the evidence regarding the impact of various factors on adherence to these treatments is limited, highlighting the need for strategies that facilitate early identification of prognostic adherence factors.

Objectives

This study aims to identify factors that may influence adherence to nutritional medical treatment.

Methods

A cross-sectional prospective study was conducted using a validated 25-item questionnaire targeted at specialists in Endocrinology, Nutrition, Rehabilitation, and Dysphagia.

Results

A total of 296 health professionals participated, providing pertinent data for 614 patients with dysphagia and malnutrition during routine clinical practice in public hospitals. Several factors potentially impairing adherence were identified, such as a patient's lack of appetite, satiety, disinterest and fatigue. Texture was recognized as a facilitating factor in 96% of cases. A statistically significant correlation was found between the value patients place on the intake of oral nutrition supplements in their recovery process and their compliance with the prescribed doses.

Conclusions

The results emphasize the importance of communicating with patients and caregivers about the necessity of complying with the prescribed nutritional regimen and its potential benefits. The analysis of habits also underlined the need to offer flexible, patient-tailored nutritional solutions to enhance treatment adherence.