Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Madison Domek

Date

2024

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science

Department

Health Studies

Committee Chair

Tracy Bruen

Committee Member

Karen Smith

Committee Member

Lindsey Lee

Abstract

This quality improvement (QI) project investigates the incidence and management of malnutrition in pediatric oncology patients at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital (SJCRH) from October 2022 to September 2023. The study aims to quantify malnutrition diagnoses made by registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) and to identify patients at higher risk of severe malnutrition based on their primary cancer diagnosis and clinic location. A total of 161 patients were identified, resulting in 238 documented instances of malnutrition, classified as mild, moderate, or severe. The majority of unresolved cases were attributed to inadequate follow-up, particularly in the Hematology Clinic, which had a 100% unresolved diagnosis rate. RDNs were pivotal in both diagnosing and resolving malnutrition, especially among the Solid Tumor and Brain Tumor Clinics. This project highlights the urgent need for standardized nutritional care protocols and improved interdisciplinary communication to effectively address the complex needs of malnourished pediatric oncology patients. Further research is warranted to enhance intervention strategies.

Comments

Data is provided by the student.”

Library Comment

Dissertation or thesis originally submitted to ProQuest.

Notes

Open Access

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