Using the Minimum Data Set to Determine the Prevalence of Nutrition Problems in an Ontario Population of Chronic Care Patients

In 1996, the use of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) was mandated for all chronic care hospitals in Ontario. Use of the MDS can help to determine the prevalence of nutrition problems in chronic care, a determination previously hampered by small, unrepresentative samples. The MDS 2.0 is an abbreviated assessment form that nurses use to promote patient referrals and appropriate care. Census data collection from July 1996 to March 1998 of all admissions to Ontario chronic care facilities formed the sample for this analysis (n=13,446). Nutrition problems (section K of the MDS 2.0) and diagnostic and demographic information were used for descriptive and bivariate analyses. Nutrition problems were prevalent, and the incidence was similar to previous estimates. Specifically, 28% of the sample had a body mass index < 20, 28.5% were prescribed a mechanically altered diet, and 42% required partial or total assistance with feeding. Associations were found between nutrition variables and selected health problems. Although the MDS 2.0 has limitations, it provides a sound basis for nutrition screening and referral in chronic care hospitals, as well as a standard data collection method that promotes research in this area.