new.gif){kind=small}
Specialist dietitian
By the nature of the treatment our patients receive for oesophago-gastric cancer this has significant implications for their dietary and nutritional needs.
Our Specialist Oesophago-Gastric/Upper GI Dietitian service supports and advises patients and the medical staff looking after them.
For early nutritional screening and assessment Dietitian Louisa Taylor, pictured right, runs a clinic with Nurse Specialist Keith Mitchell for all upper GI cancer patients having curative and palliative treatment.
On the wards, clinical staff are advised and trained by these dietitians on appropriate use of artificial and replacement nutrition support and its management during hospital, and so is the wider healthcare community supporting patients at home.
Upper GI dietitians also attend and contribute to weekly ‘Grand Rounds’ and the multi-disciplinary team meetings to report on patient progress. Side effects which can arise from treatment, include nausea, loss of appetite and tiredness.
The dietitian works closely with colleagues caring for the patient to alleviate and address these issues and offers reassurance to the patient.
The relationship with patients continues after hospital discharge with dietitians promoting nutrition through patient support groups, including the local and national Oesophageal Patients’ Association.
The Exeter Oesophago-Gastric Centre service has evolved, and the commitment to bettering understanding of this disease and treatments continues.
Our specialist dietitian service is developing resources and evidence-based information for patients and is currently taking part in research into weight loss after MIO.
"It’s often difficulties with swallowing and with eating that takes our patients to their GP in the first place. We support patients throughout their time with us in the hospital and long after, as they and their families or carers adapt to a new lifestyle."
Louisa Taylor
Qualifications
BSc (Hons) Health Science degree, PG Dip Dietetics with state registration
Courses Attended:
Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition Group Clinical Update Course 2007 (1 week course with pre coursework, case study and exam)
Oncology group study day on Outcome Measures (May 2008)
Clinical Supervisory Skills (plus peer assisted learning)
Breaking Bad News (internal course)
Directorate / Specialty:
Professional services / Upper GI Surgery and Oncology
Base Ward(s) worked on / with or department:
Mere ward, Okement ward, Yeo ward, Cherrybook day case unit and Radiotherapy.
Current membership(s) of professional, national and regional bodies:
British Dietetic Association (BDA), Oncology group of the BDA
Research
Currently involved in looking at the average weightloss in MIO patients
Contact details
01392 406237, email: louisa.taylor@rdeft.nhs.uk