Nursing Skills | Nutritional Assessment

Nutritional assessment helps nurses identify patients at risk for malnutrition, obesity, or nutrient deficiencies. This evaluation includes measuring height, weight, BMI, and recent weight changes. Nurses assess dietary intake, appetite, swallowing ability, and gastrointestinal symptoms. Laboratory values such as albumin, prealbumin, and electrolytes provide additional insight. Physical signs of malnutrition may include muscle wasting, poor wound healing, brittle hair, or edema. Nurses collaborate with dietitians to develop individualized nutrition plans. Patient education focuses on balanced diets, hydration, and managing dietary restrictions. Documentation includes assessment findings, interventions, and referrals. Effective nutritional assessment supports healing, immune function, and overall health.

Hints About Anthropometric Measurements

Height, weight, and BMI provide baseline data.

Tips About Dietary Intake Evaluation

Identifies nutritional gaps.

Facts About Lab Value Interpretation

Reveals metabolic imbalances.