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MUST Score — Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool
Three-step nutritional risk screening validated for hospital, community, and outpatient use
1BMI Score
BMI: — (enter weight and height)
2Unintentional Weight Loss Score (past 3–6 months)
Weight loss: — (enter previous weight or % directly)
3Acute Disease Effect
—
MUST Score
—
Step 1 — BMI
—
Step 2 — Wt Loss
—
Step 3 — Acute
MUST Score Interpretation
| Score | Risk | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Low Risk | Routine care; rescreen weekly (hospital), monthly (care homes), annually (community) |
| 1 | Medium Risk | Observe; record food intake 3 days; reassess and review if improving or adequate |
| ≥2 | High Risk | Treat; refer to dietitian; improve nutritional intake; reweigh weekly |
Step 1 BMI: >20=0, 18.5–20=1, <18.5=2
Step 2 Wt Loss %: <5%=0, 5–10%=1, >10%=2
Step 3 Acute: nil/inadequate intake >5 days=+2
Total MUST = Step1 + Step2 + Step3
Step 2 Wt Loss %: <5%=0, 5–10%=1, >10%=2
Step 3 Acute: nil/inadequate intake >5 days=+2
Total MUST = Step1 + Step2 + Step3
MUST Note: Developed by BAPEN (British Association for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition). High inter-rater reliability. Can be used without biochemical tests. In elderly patients, calf circumference or demi-span can be used if height/weight not obtainable.
For clinical decision support only. Not a substitute for professional medical judgment.
