[Predictors of patient satisfaction with the food services in a public hospital in Madrid]. / Predictores de la satisfacción de los pacientes con la alimentación de un hospital público de Madrid.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To describe patients satisfaction with the food services during hospitalisation, and to determine the predictors. METHODOLOGY: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the "Clínico San Carlos" Hospital, between May and September 2010. A self-completion questionnaire was given to patients with both regular and therapeutic diets after their hospital discharge. We included socio-demographic variables, overall satisfaction, and satisfaction regarding different aspects and types of food. Descriptive and multivariable analyses were performed, with the overall satisfaction with food as the dependent variable using binary logistic regression. RESULTS: A total of 549 questionnaires were returned (rate 29%), of which 60.7% received a therapeutic diet. 55.4% were men, and the median age was 68 years. Three-quarters (75%) were satisfied or very satisfied. Statistically significant variables associated with patient satisfaction with the food services received were the meal's taste and temperature, as well as being satisfied with the fish and soups on the menu. CONCLUSIONS: Despite the high level of satisfaction with food services, there is scope for improvement. We have identified some of the aspects on which action would be more beneficial.