When assessing dietary habits, nurses should ask a variety of questions to gather comprehensive information:
1. What is your typical daily food intake?
Understanding the types and amounts of food consumed daily can help identify nutritional imbalances.
2. Do you have any dietary restrictions or allergies?
Knowing about restrictions and allergies is crucial for planning safe and effective nutritional interventions.
3. How often do you eat out?
This question helps to understand the patient's reliance on restaurant or fast food, which may contribute to unhealthy eating habits.
4. Do you take any dietary supplements?
Information on supplements can reveal gaps in diet that the patient is trying to fill and potential interactions with medications.
5. What is your fluid intake like?
Assessing fluid intake, including water, coffee, tea, and alcohol, is important for understanding hydration status and overall health.
