Category: Healthcare management

According to the National Institutes of Health, modern healthcare is increasingly conceptualized as a complex adaptive system, functioning optimally as an open system. This framework provides a critical lens for understanding the fundamental differences between open and closed systems in nursing, which profoundly impact patient care delivery, organizational efficiency, and staff collaboration.

According to a 2024 study, patients who set SMART goals within their care plan experienced significant improvements in health metrics, such as A1c levels for diabetes management. This evidence highlights why mastering what are smart objectives in NCP is crucial for nurses aiming to enhance patient-centered care and drive measurable results.

According to the NHS, malnutrition is a significant health concern, with unintentional weight loss being one of the main signs. Understanding how to help support the client's nutritional status is vital for improving patient outcomes, accelerating recovery, and reducing complications.

Studies indicate that up to 50% of patients may develop or experience a worsening of malnutrition during their hospital stay, highlighting the significant prevalence of hospital acquired malnutrition. This critical issue can affect patient recovery, prolong hospital stays, and increase healthcare costs, yet it is often overlooked.

According to the Association of Nutrition & Foodservice Professionals, average per patient day (PPD) food costs for skilled nursing facilities typically fall between $5.35 and $7.41. Determining your facility's specific figure is essential for effective budgeting, and knowing how to calculate food cost per patient day provides a powerful metric for financial health and resource management.

Did you know that up to 78% of hospitalized patients may be malnourished upon admission, a fact that underscores the importance of nutritional assessment? When a patient's dietary needs are compromised, a dedicated team steps in, and there is one specialist in the nutrition support team who is responsible for assessing nutritional status and guiding care: the Registered Dietitian (RD).

According to one study, up to a quarter of older adults suffer from chronic dehydration, highlighting the critical need for proactive intervention in healthcare settings. A comprehensive approach to patient wellness must address **how to promote adequate nutrition and hydration for patients**, as these are fundamental to recovery and overall health.

Studies indicate that up to one-third of patients in developed countries have some degree of malnutrition upon hospital admission. Because of this widespread risk, understanding why it is important that patients receive good nutrition is a critical component of modern healthcare and patient care.