About this course

Malnutrition is a common health problem. There are an estimated 3 million malnourished people in the UK at any time, with many more at risk of becoming malnourished. Over 1 million are over the age of 65 (Age UK, 2016).

There are certain groups of people who are at higher risk of malnutrition, such as those living with chronic conditions, mental health needs and those who are approaching the end of life.

This course is suitable for any staff who support individuals to eat and drink as well as those who are responsible for the provision of meals for individuals who use care services.

Participants will gain an understanding of the good practice to promote the health and well-being of individuals. It also deals with dehydration including ways to encourage service users to maintain adequate hydration when they are reluctant to drink. This will include giving learners knowledge on vitamins and minerals, eating aids, medical conditions, and diet management as well as encouraging participants to think and discuss ways they can support diet choices and identify and overcome concerns and how to record nutrition and hydration needs effectively.

What you’ll learn

Identify signs and symptoms of malnutrition and dehydration in care settings.

Understand what hydration and malnutrition mean.

Understand common reasons and causes for poor nutrition and the symptoms of dehydration and malnutrition.

Describe the effects of common conditions in older people on diet and how to improve bone and muscle density.

Monitor and record nutrition and hydration needs and outcomes.

Explain the legal and ethical need for screening.

Describe the effect of food on the body and general health and identify key minerals and nutrients required by the body.

Describe how to provide an adequate diet using MUST tool.

Discuss the principles of MUST.

Understand the role and function of the Food Standards Agency.

Discuss allergies and the standards for allergy awareness.