Testing of the Individual Nutrition Rx assessment process among nursing home residents.

The purpose of this article is to describe the Individual Nutrition Rx (INRx) assessment process and to report preliminary findings on baseline nutritional status, common nutrition problems, and specific individualized interventions. The INRx utilizes a predictive model for participant identification, a systematic assessment process, and evidence-based interventions to improve the nutritional status of at-risk residents. Nineteen percent of participants had abnormal serum albumin levels, and 32.8% had abnormal serum prealbumin levels, indicating diminished protein stores and protein-calorie malnutrition. Frequent nutritional problems identified through the INRx assessment process are appetite change, poor positioning while eating, and oral status concerns.