NUTR 403: Nutrition Assessment
Prerequisites: NUTR 300, 316
Credit Hours: (3) Two hours lecture; two hours laboratory
Introduces the systematic approach and techniques for collecting, classifying, and synthesizing important and relevant data to describe nutritional status, related nutritional problems, and their causes.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
Nutrition Assessment is the first step in the Nutrition Care Process. It is an ongoing, dynamic process that involves initial data collection as well as continual reassessment and analysis of the client’s status compared to accepted standards, recommendations, and/or goals. This course is organized according to the five categories of nutrition assessment data as outlined in the Nutrition Care Process:
· Food/Nutrition-Related History
· Biochemical Data, Medical Tests, and Procedures
· Anthropometric Measurements
· Nutrition-Focused Physical Findings
· Client History
In the laboratory, students will use techniques, tools and equipment to collect information corresponding to the five categories of assessment data. They may include, but will not be limited to:
· Malnutrition screening tools
· Functional status: hand grip strength dynamometry
· Nutrition related edema assessment models
· Indirect calorimetry & interpretation
· Computerized nutrient analysis applications
· Anthropometrics: direct measurements & estimations
· Body composition: bioelectric impedance, air displacement, circumferential measurements, skinfolds
· Nutrition focused physical exam: inspection, palpation, percussion, auscultation
· Vital signs: blood pressure, pulse, respiration, temperature
· Biochemical data- point of care tests: hemoglobin, cholesterol, glucose
· Food-medication interaction assessment
Bloodborne pathogens safety training will be provided.
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
Course instruction strategies may include, but will not be limited to, lecture, demonstration, discussion, class activities, case studies, videos and computer applications. Students will demonstrate techniques using various pieces of equipment.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. Recognize the placement of Nutrition Assessment in the Nutrition Care Process and cite the categories of data to be collected.
2. Exhibit proper techniques for use of equipment and completion of various tests as part of nutrition assessment.
3. Demonstrate the ability to interpret pertinent information to form a comprehensive nutrition assessment.
Assessment Measures
Assessment measures may include, but are not limited to exams, assignments, projects, case studies, and demonstration of skills.
Other Course Information
This course fulfills in part, the requirements for the Didactic Program in Dietetics accredited by the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics.
Review and Approval
February 2005 Final Approval Dr. Steve Lerch
Revised 3/6/09
March 27, 2012 Revised
April, 2019