OUTLINE

INTRODUCTION

BRIEF HISTORY OF NUTRITION AND DIETETICS

AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION

SETTINGS FOR NUTRITIONIST PRACTICE

FUNCTIONS OF A NUTRITIONIST IN A HOSPITAL

PATIENTS THAT SHOULD BE REFERRED TO A DIETITIAN

ASSESSMENT AND TOOLS

NUTRITION CARE PROCESS

CONCLUSION

REFERENCE

INTRODUCTION

Nutrition is the scientific study of how organisms obtain and utilize food to support their life processes. It encompasses the intake of nutrients, their digestion, absorption, transport, and metabolism within the body. Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining health, supporting growth and development, and preventing various diseases.

Dietetics is the science of applying nutritional principles to the planning and preparation of foods and regulation of the diet in relation to both health and disease. It involves understanding how food and nutrition impact human health, with an emphasis on public health and educating individuals on making proper dietary choices.

Dietitians in hospital care teams significantly enhances patient outcomes. They offering personalized dietary plans that address individual health conditions, thereby promoting recovery and disease management.

Beyond direct patient care, dietitians contribute to cost-effective healthcare by reducing complications and shortening hospital stays through proper nutritional support. Their involvement in interdisciplinary teams ensures comprehensive care, as they collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement effective nutrition strategies.