Patient Leaders report on nutrition - Royal London Hospital

Healthwatch Tower Hamlets undertook research on nutrition and hydration for inpatients at the Royal London Hospital. They spoke to 35 patients during unannounced visits to four wards between February and March 2016, observing meal services and exploring patient experiences of food, hydration and support at mealtimes. 

The research found that many patients did not eat all of the food provided. Common reasons included dissatisfaction with the quality or taste of meals, receiving meals they had not ordered, unsuitable food choices, limited menu variety and meal times that were considered too early. The report also identified widespread issues with the implementation of the Red Tray policy for patients needing additional support, including failures to provide support with eating, incorrect allocation of red trays and poor recording of food intake.

Healthwatch observed communication problems between consultants, nurses and healthcare assistants regarding patients' dietary requirements, allergies and nil-by-mouth status. Staff did not always provide sufficient assistance to help patients prepare for meals, and there was limited evidence that patients were offered opportunities to wash their hands before eating. Patients also requested more varied menus, additional breakfast options, and food that better reflected the cultural diversity of the local population. 

Healthwatch recommended reviewing food quality and the catering contract, improving staff training on nutrition, hydration and the Red Tray policy, increasing support at mealtimes, improving communication about patients' dietary needs, providing more menu choice and making mealtimes more flexible. The report concluded that while clinical care on the wards was generally viewed positively, significant improvements were needed to ensure patients receive appropriate nutrition and hydration during their hospital stay.