Implementation of protected mealtimes in the subacute setting: stepped wedge cluster trial protocol.

The methods selected will ensure that the research is of high quality with conclusions useful and relevant for translation into practice settings. The study does not aim to assess whether the intervention is sustainable beyond the study period, rather it will establish whether the removal of known barriers to intervention uptake enables high fidelity with the intervention. As a result we will have a greater understanding of the nutritional consequences of protected mealtimes in subacute care.