ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF MALNUTRITION IN HOSPITALIZED ADULT PATIENTS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF THE ROLES OF RADIOLOGY, NURSING, CLINICAL NUTRITION, AND LABORATORY BIOMARKERS

Abstract Background: Malnutrition affects a substantial proportion of hospitalized adults and is associated with longer hospital stay, infections and higher mortality. Effective management requires coordinated work from multiple disciplines, including radiology, nursing, clinical nutrition and laboratory medicine. However, evidence is often reported within silos focusing on a single profession or assessment modality. Objectives: To synthesize evidence on the assessment and management of malnutrition in hospitalized adult patients, with specific attention to the complementary roles of radiology, nursing, clinical nutrition and laboratory biomarkers. Methods: A systematic search of major databases identified observational and interventional studies in hospitalized adults (≥18 years) addressing malnutrition assessment or management in at least one of the four domains. Ten original studies were included for the primary results and ten systematic reviews or meta-analyses informed the background and discussion. Data were synthesized narratively in line with PRISMA 2020 recommendations. Results: Nurse administered screening tools demonstrated good validity and reliability, while individualized dietitian led nutritional support reduced complications, readmissions and mortality. Computed tomography (CT)–derived body composition measures strengthened Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) phenotypic criteria, and laboratory biomarkers such as prealbumin and C reactive protein–to–albumin ratios provided additional prognostic information. Evidence supported a multidisciplinary model with early screening, targeted imaging and biomarker use, and structured nutritional interventions. Conclusion: Integrating radiology, nursing, clinical nutrition and laboratory biomarkers into standardized hospital pathways can improve identification and treatment of malnutrition in adults, but implementation and inter professional coordination remain major gaps.