Zofingen

Researchers are evaluating the effect of continued nutritional support after hospital discharge compared to usual care in medical patients at nutritional risk. This trial focuses on adults who have experienced malnutrition, a condition linked to higher risks of death, rehospitalization, and loss of function, especially among elderly and multi-ill patients. Previous studies showed that in-hospital nutritional support helps reduce complications and mortality, but the long-term benefits after discharge remain unclear. Participants are randomly assigned to one of two groups. The intervention group receives customized nutritional support from an experienced dietician to meet their individual energy and protein needs, including oral nutritional supplements as needed. The control group receives general advice on healthy eating habits at discharge without ongoing nutritional support. Follow-up includes regular phone calls every 2 to 4 weeks to monitor adherence and adjust dietary plans as necessary. During the study, participants are monitored for up to three years. Researchers assess key outcomes such as time to death from any cause, hospital readmissions, major complications, and changes in functional status using the Barthel index. Quality of life is measured with the European Quality of Life 5 Dimensions index and a visual-analogue scale at regular intervals by phone. This comprehensive follow-up helps determine whether sustained nutritional support after discharge improves long-term health and recovery.