Nurses play a crucial role in assessing underweight patients. The assessment includes:
BMI Calculation: A primary method to determine if a patient is underweight. Dietary History: Inquiring about the patient's eating habits and food intake. Medical History: Understanding any underlying medical conditions or medications that may contribute to weight loss. Physical Examination: Checking for signs of malnutrition such as muscle wasting, dry skin, and brittle hair. Laboratory Tests: Blood tests can help identify deficiencies in essential nutrients.
