A patient may develop malnutrition after a stroke. An assessment of nutritional status should be included in any patient who has had a significant stroke.
Patient selection: stroke
Risk factors for malnutrition:
(1) pre-existing malnutrition or borderline malnutrition
(2) history of previous stroke
(3) history of diabetes mellitus
(4) dysphagia
(5) reduced level of consciousness
(6) prolonged hospital stay
A patient who is well-nourished at the time of a stroke may show malnutrition within a few weeks. The decline may not be evident during the acute episode. It is essential to include a nutritional assessment as part of follow-up.
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