Patients views on hospital meals and mealtimes

Abstract

The aim of this survey was to explore the patients' views on meals and mealtimes at a large state-owned hospital. The study involved a convenience sample of 15 females and 10 males hospitalized in the three general medical wards and a response rate of 83% was achieved. Data was collected by means of a self-administered questionnaire. For those patients who could not read and write thus needed help in filling the questionnaire, it resulted to be researcher-administered questionnaire. The findings show that the times at which breakfast and lunch are served are 'just right', while supper is served 'too early'. Patients do not have a choice in their meals, and were not satisfied with the lack of diversity in the quality of meals, especially for lunch and supper. The majority of patients felt that the meals are 'satisfactory' and the quantity of meals offered to them is 'just right'. Patients found the meals enticing on presentation and also well-presented. The temperature of food was adequate, and for the majority of patients the food received was fresh. Patients were pleased with the care of the nursing staff as they stated they were helpful and friendly with them. On the other hand, the collection of trays after patients finished eating was not given its due importance by nurses as they were not collected by them. These results suggest that more variety of food especially for lunch and supper should be offered. Increase supply of salt and pepper, clean glass and paper napkins to be offered for patients during mealtimes, and nurses should determine what their patients have left on the crockery.