Yuranigh’s legacy in Molong. Collaboration in nutrition practice.
Natalia Knezevic1 1Western Nsw Lhd Molong Multipurpose Service, Molong, NSW, Australia
Abstract
Background rationale:
Located in the central west of NSW, in the rural town of Molong, is a multi- purpose (MPS) general hospital and Residential Aged Care (RAC) facility, called Yuranigh House. Dietetic input into the variety of food choice, menu options and a number of events to assist in the home like environment has improved resident nutritional status with the inclusion of traditional aboriginal culture and foods. 64
Aims:
To develop a home like environment with particular assessment of nutritional status, dining experience and activities, working together with a multidisciplinary approach to enable high level experience and wellness among residents. 31
Results / Outcomes
Complying with menu specifications with the Agency for Clinical Innovation and nutrition policy of the district and nutrition support through nourishing fluids menu, we are able to improve micronutrient status, specifically vitamin D, B12 and Iron status through supplementation secondary to pathology post 12 weeks implementation and oral intake improvements. By reducing overall commercial nutrition supplements and improve homelike experience through customised events, we’ve enabled better nutrition uptake for all residents through social engagement and now with greater freedoms, better outings and day trips. 84
Conclusions / future directions
Ongoing planning, nutrition assessment, incorporating life events, activities and food all help develop food related memory and quality of life for residents as a part of standard practice. Molong MPS will help inform innovation that is transferable to all MPS’s across western NSW. 43
Biography
Natalia Knezevic works with an integrated model of care with a GP practice co-located with community health as a Community Based Dietitian. Natalia’s role includes looking after the community, inpatient and aged care sector in the rural and regional town of Molong.