Providing nutrition advice in the oncology setting: A survey of current practice, awareness of guidelines and training needs of Irish healthcare professionals in three hospitals

Objective: To determine the current practices of Irish healthcare professionals working in the oncology setting of three hospitals in the north-west of Ireland with regard to nutrition screening, provision of nutrition advice and training needs. Methods: This cross-sectional study distributed a questionnaire to healthcare professionals in the oncology departments of three hospitals between November 2018 and April 2019. Data were analysed using SPSS, and one open-ended question underwent thematic analysis. Results: Fifty-one individuals completed the survey. 98.1% rated nutrition as very or critically important in cancer management. 74.5% nutritionally screen inpatients while only 17.6% screen outpatients. The majority (86.3%) provide nutrition advice to patients, yet only 19.6% collect data on nutrition status. Doctors and nurses report low levels of confidence and lack of awareness of guidelines. 78.4% of respondents were interested in further training in oncology nutrition, preferably through a conference study day. Respondents reported that early nutrition intervention and integration into current practice is important, there is a current lack of resources and they recognised a need for different interventions depending on cancer type and stage. Conclusion: Current practice varies; however, positive attitudes towards nutrition and interest in additional training were found.