To construct an evidence-based practice programme for the nutrition management of older adults in nursing homes. The programme will provide a basis for improving or solving the nutrition management problems of older adults in nursing homes.

The study is based on guideline evidence and Delphi method. The evidence was comprehensively searched, assessed and summarized, and the best evidence and a preliminary programme for nutrition management of older adults in nursing homes were aggregated. Then, the Delphi method was used to assess the applicability of the preliminary programme and the obstacle factors to modify, supplement and improve the nutrition management programme.

Baseline survey data were collected from three nursing homes in Ningxia, China, and guideline evidence was obtained through systematic searches of the Cochrane Library, PubMed and other scientific databases, as well as relevant official websites.

A total of 350 older adults residing nursing homes and 160 nurses participated in the baseline survey. To ensure the programme’s applicability and identify potential implementation obstacles, fifteen experts from local grade A hospitals, nursing homes and community health centres were consulted for review.

A fourteen-item, fifty-six-best-evidence nutrition management programme for older adults in nursing homes was developed based on five guideline evidences and baseline survey findings.

This is a systematic and comprehensive nutritional management programme for older adults in nursing homes based on guideline evidence, which can provide a standardised basis for the implementation of scientific nutritional management in nursing homes in Ningxia. Managers should promote the translation of evidence into practice in accordance with the specific circumstances of individual nursing homes.