Clinical skills: importance of nutrition for acutely ill hospital patients.

Providing good nutrition to patients in hospital has become a primary focus in many NHS trusts. Whether it is provided by hospital food or nutrition support, the impact of adequate food on patient outcome is now well documented. However, the physiological, social and economic consequences of malnutrition in hospitals must be acknowledged. This article provides an overview of the metabolic changes that occur during starvation in health and in illness. The methods used by different healthcare professionals to assess nutrition are summarized. A review of the range of nutrition support options available and indications for their use is provided. Hospital nutrition is considered in the context of recent national and international recommendations.