Feeding the Convalescent

Human beings require adequate amounts of all nutrients to maintain health, and hunger and appetite are the factors that encourage one to eat. Frequently the person who is beginning to convalesce has lost his appetite, and it is hard to find foods that he will enjoy. Eating is usually a pleasant experience, particularly if the food is appetizing, served in a manner that has eye appeal, and if it smells good. Most people dislike eating alone. If it is possible for the patient to eat at least one meal a day with the family, the social atmosphere will usually stimulate his appetite. It will still be the responsibility of the home nurse to see that the patient gets a well-rounded diet that contains the essential foods, including milk, fruits, cereals, vegetables, and meat or a protein substitute for meat. Within the limits of the diet ordered by the doctor, cater to the likes and dislikes of the patient as far as possible.

If the patient has had a severe illness, he may be able to tolerate only small amounts of food at a time and will have to have food more frequently. Midmorning, mid after noon, and bedtime nourishment should be offered unless it appears to complicate matters further by decreasing the amount of food eaten at regular mealtimes. Frequently a high caloric diet, one that offers especially nourishing foods, may be ordered if the patient is very weak or has lost a lot of weight. Foods that are rich in fats or very sweet may upset the patient’s digestive system. It is better to add nourishment between meals that to attempt to over-feed the patient at regular meal times.

Meats are a good source of protein, but the patient’s appetite for meat may be so poor that other sources, such as milk, must be increased. To increase the protein without adding bulk, dried skim milk may be added to many foods. To meet the higher energy requirements, increase carbohydrates by adding sweets to the diet, such as jelly, jam, strained honey, and sugar.