Dietitian how-to
How to Conduct a Nutrition Assessment
Assessment guides personalized plans.
Quick answer
Assessment guides personalized plans. In short: review; measure; ask, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Review medical history and labs.
Measure height, weight and body changes.
Ask about diet and habits.
Identify nutrition problems.
Set goals with the patient.
Document the assessment.
Safety reminders for dietitians
- Verify allergies and diet orders
- Follow patient privacy rules
- Monitor tube feeding tolerance
- Work within scope of practice
Key terms
Medical nutrition therapy · Nutrition assessment · Macronutrients · Micronutrients · Enteral nutrition · Parenteral nutrition: see the full dietitian glossary.