Page 6 - GBGH Foundation Newsletter - Winter 2022

STAFF SPOTLIGHT:

BRITTANY GAGNON

We spoke to GBGH’s Dietitian, Brittany Gagnon, about her role at the
hospital and the role nutrition plays in patient health and recovery.

What is your role at GBGH?
I am a registered dietitian. My job is to find the best nutrition care plan for our patients, which can be as many as 120
patients at a time. It can definitely be a challenge because there are many different dietary restrictions to consider
– whether it be different textures, allergies or preferences – and we try our best to accommodate each individual
patient.

Why is nutrition so important in a patient’s healthcare journey?
We know that almost half the patients admitted to hospital are at a high risk of malnutrition. These patients have
infections that are harder to treat, wounds that are harder to heal, and stay longer in hospital. When we can offer
a variety of meals that look appealing, and accommodate different diets and preferences, patients eat more and
improve their nutritional status, which means faster recovery!

GBGH is an older hospital, and we face challenges with aging equipment in all
departments. How does aging or not functional equipment affect the dietary
team?
Because of outdated equipment, we have a limited capacity to prepare patient
meals in our kitchen and many menu items arrive ready to serve. This makes it
challenging to accommodate all of the diet preferences and restrictions, but the
entire team works hard to provide excellent service to all of our patients.

What is Freshflex™?
Freshflex™ is an innovative menu system, built on fresh, flavourful, nutritious meals.
Within the program, patients choose from a 7 day menu that includes choices
for starters, entrees and desserts, with more than 100 restaurant quality dishes to
explore. Because these meals have excellent presentation, and variety, patients are
more likely to eat them, improving their nutritional status.

The Freshflex™ system includes two specialized ovens, which have the ability to
steam, roast, bake and cook. This will provide the team with the equipment and
ability to customize meals to accommodate diverse dietary preferences.

To learn more about the Freshflex™ system and how
you can help, visit https://gbghf.ca/freshflex/

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