Malnutrition Assessment in Community

• MQ Action Plan
• Nutrition Screening Chart for Clients in the Community
• Adult Nutrition Screening Chart

MQ Action Plan

MQ less than 80 'Malnourished'

Client is Malnourished

• Give 'Eating with a Small Appetite' diet sheet for practical tips. NB: Clients with diabetes have a separate diet sheet 'Low Weight and Diabetes'.
• Encourage high calorie, high protein snacks and drinks.
• Reassess frequently. Repeat MQ at least once a month. Record MQ score.
• If no improvement look for the underlying cause eg.
  • Poor appetite
  • No food in the hous
  • No cooking facilities
  • No cooking skills
  • Poor mobility
  • Lives alone
• If client cannot manage to eat much try Build Up or Complan.
• Discuss a prescription for sip feeds with the GP.

MQ 80-100 Depleted 'Energy & Protein Reserves'

Probable Risk of Malnutrition

• Encourage a balanced diet.
• Give 'Eating with a Small Appetite' diet sheet.
• NB: Clients with Diabetes have a separate diet sheet 'Low Weight and Diabetes'.
• Encourage 'little and often' with snacks, milky drinks, Build Up or Complan between meals.
• Reassess regularly - at least every 2 months. Record MQ score.

MQ greater than 100 'Well Nourished'

Little or No Risk of Malnutrition

• Record MQ score
• No action needed
• Reassess if condition changes

For resources, advice or help contact the Community Dietitians (Telephone 365221)