What Are the Key Components of a Nutritional Assessment?
A thorough nutritional assessment typically includes the following components:
Medical History: Reviewing the patient's medical history, including any chronic illnesses, medications, and surgical history that might affect nutritional status. Dietary Intake: Assessing the patient's current eating habits, including food preferences, allergies, and any special diets. Anthropometric Measurements: Measuring body weight, height, body mass index (BMI), and other indicators of body composition. Biochemical Data: Laboratory tests such as serum albumin, prealbumin, and total protein levels to evaluate nutritional status. Clinical Observations: Physical examination to identify signs of malnutrition or nutrient deficiencies.
