Do you ever wonder how dietitians know who's most at risk for malnutrition? Wonder who needs quick nutrition intervention?
Nutrition is such an important part of disease management and treatment. All patients deserve evidence-based nutrition intervention and advice but that's not always possible - at least not right away. The people who need it the most should be prioritized. It's like when you get on an airplane. You're instructed to put on your oxygen mask first before helping loved ones. Everyone matters - some just need the attention a little faster than others.
In recent years, healthcare institutions and physicians have become increasingly aware of the negative impact malnutrition has on patient outcomes and quality of life as well as the incredible value of having a Registered Dietitian on the team. Early intervention not only improves health but also saves lives.
In order to identify who needs immediately intervention, implementing a Nutrition Screening Tool can easily and accurately determine who needs nutrition recommendations so they can start the road to recovery.
WHO DOES THE NUTRITION SCREENING In this episode of the RD Exam Made Easy Podcast, you'll learn:
1) Who is responsible for completing the nutrition screening (hint: it's a team approach)
2) Regulatory requirements when it comes to nutrition screening and why having a protocol and system in place is best practice
3) The different types of screening tools available, as well as the pros and cons of each
I've worked in a hospital for almost 15 years. I'm still surprised when other healthcare providers, particularly nursing, aren't aware that dietitians see everyone in the hospital. Everyone eats so dietitians are the only ancillary service that sees everyone. Nutrition isn't a consult only service like other specialties such as Social Work and Speech Therapy. This is another reason why having an accurate screening tool in place is so important.
If you want to learn more about the Nutrition Screening Tools available and the importance of using a screening tool, this episode is for you.
Your work as a dietitian matters. You have so much to offer and you're needed.
Links:If you're a visual learner like me, I created a cheat sheet with a breakdown of the Nutrition Screening Tools. You can get your FREE copy
here.
If you know an RD2Be or you're an RD wanting a refresher on Nutrition Screening Tools, listen now.
Episode Transcript 
