Nutrition management program for older adults in Ningxia nursing homes, China: Evidence-based practice and the Delphi method

Abstract Objectives: To construct an evidence-based practice program for the nutrition management of older adults in nursing homes. The program will provide a basis for improving or solving the nutrition management problems of older adults in nursing homes. Design: Study based on guideline evidence and Delphi method. Comprehensively searched, assessed and summarized the evidence and aggregated best evidence and a preliminary program for nutrition management of older adults in nursing homes. Then used the Delphi method to assess the applicability of the preliminary program and the obstacle factors to modify, supplement and improve the nutrition management program. Setting: Baseline survey data were collected from three nursing homes in Ningxia, China, and guideline evidence was obtained through systematic searches of the Cochrane Library, PubMed and other scientific databases, as well as relevant official websites. Participants: A total of 350 older adults residing nursing homes and 160 nurses participated in the baseline survey. To ensure the program’s applicability and identify potential implementation obstacles, 15 experts from local Grade-A hospitals, nursing homes, and community health centers were consulted for review. Results: A 14-item, 56-best-evidence nutrition management program for older adults in nursing homes was developed based on five guideline evidences and baseline survey findings. Conclusions: This is a systematic and comprehensive nutritional management program for older adults in nursing homes based on guideline evidence, which can provide a standardized basis for the implementation of scientific nutritional management in nursing homes in Ningxia. Managers should promote the translation of evidence into practice in accordance with the specific circumstances of individual nursing homes.