Implementation of a Nutritional Tool During Melphalan Autologous Transplant to Improve Caloric and Protein Intake

A Pilot Study of Implementation of a Nutritional Tool During Melphalan Autologous Transplant to Improve Caloric and Protein Intake

The purpose of this pilot before and after interventional study is to determine if early intervention and provision of menus regarding appropriate diet choices for melphalan autologous transplant patients experiencing nausea and diarrhea will improve nutrition status and overall calorie and protein intake throughout the transplant process.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients undergoing melphalan autologous transplants will be included in this study
• All patients that will be included in this pilot before and after interventional study will be inpatient on floors 5900, 6900 or 8900 of Barnes-Jewish Hospital
• Per hospital protocol, all patients who will receive a melphalan autologous transplant will be admitted and remain inpatient for the duration of the transplant process. There will be no exclusion for dietary restrictions or food allergies as the foodservice provided to patients is room service, all food allergies are noted and suitable alternatives are provided as a standard of service.
• Once a patient has been determined to meet criteria for the study, they will be approached by a member of the research team between day -2 and day 0 of transplant for consent. Patients must consent for the study by day +1 of transplant to be enrolled.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients <18 years of age
• Pregnant women
• Prisoners
• Patient unable to provide informed consent.