Malnutrition, dehydration, and starvation in the midst of plenty: the political impact of qualitative inquiry.

The author presents findings from studies investigating the factors that influence the quality of care in nursing homes. The findings disclose that multiple factors, such as lack of individualized care, inattention to problems such as dysphagia and oral health care, and especially inadequate staffing and lack of professional supervision contribute to malnutrition, dehydration, and weight loss among nursing home residents. She describes how these qualitative studies had a significant impact on long-term health care policy. She urges investigators to publish research in the public realm accessible to those who can effect change and thus prevent pain and suffering among nursing home residents. Furthermore, she emphasizes the importance of publishing qualitative findings in a language understandable by the media, policy makers, governmental agencies, politicians, and the lay public.