Ascertainment of Nutrition Care Process (NCP) Implementation and Use of NCP Terminologies (NCPT) among Hospital Dietitians in the Philippines

Abstract

Background and Objective. The Nutrition Care Process (NCP) is a systematic method used by dietitians to provide high-quality nutrition care resulting in good patient outcomes. This study aimed to assess the NCP implementation and use of NCP Terminologies (NCPT) among hospital dietitians in the Philippines. Specifically, the study aimed at assessing the knowledge, perception, and practices on NCP and use of NCPT and correlate them with the dietitians' education, and professional and employment profile; and explain the barriers and facilitators of the practice of NCP and use of NCPT among hospital dietitians in the Philippines.Methods. The knowledge, perception, and practices (KPP) on NCP and NCPT of the dietitians employed in the Philippine Department of Health's licensed level 3 hospitals were determined using a validated questionnaire. Significant factors associated with the KPP were also determined. The barriers and facilitators of the practice of NCP and NCPT were determined using focus group discussion and key informant interviews of chief clinical dietitians and hospital administrators, respectively.Results. The study revealed that majority of the participants had a high level of knowledge on NCP and NCPT, positively perceived its implementation, and more than half of them implement NCP and NCPT in the hospitals. The participants' knowledge on NCP and NCPT was significantly associated with research involvement and active membership in a professional organization. While the practice of NCP and NCPT was significantly associated with having NCP-related trainings, frequency of trainings, and active membership in a professional organization. The barriers to NCP implementation were insufficient resources; lack of orientation, trainings, and support; organizational and administrative constraints; pandemic constraints; insufficient time; and lack of confidence to conduct NCP. While the facilitators of implementation were collaboration, dedication, and commitment of the healthcare team; institutionalization of NCP laws and policies; budget allocation for NCP-related activities; monitoring and consistency of NCP implementation; and work schedule. Conclusion.The findings suggest that the implementation of NCP and NCPT in the Philippines needs further support from the institution, professional organizations, and policy makers by developing strategies to cope with the barriers, and strengthen the facilitators and factors associated with practice.