Malnutrition is a condition characterized by the significant or severe decrease in body fat stores and loss of muscle mass as a result of decreased caloric and/or protein intake, prolonged nutrient imbalance, or from effects of disease.
Malnutrition is associated with numerous health risks including increased risk of falls, morbidity, risk of infection, post-operative complications, and impaired wound healing.
In Alberta, on admission to hospital, about:
All health professionals have a role in addressing malnutrition, regardless of care setting.
