What does a Registered Dietitian do?
Published 4 min read
A registered dietitian is a food and nutrition expert who has completed specialized training in the field of dietetics. Dietitians work with people of all ages to promote healthy eating habits and prevent chronic disease. They may also work in hospitals, nursing homes, and other healthcare facilities, as well as in public health and research.
Registered Dietitian job duties include:
- Assesses patients’ nutritional needs and develops individualized nutrition care plans
- Conducts nutrition counseling and education for patients and their families
- Educates medical staff on the latest nutrition research and its implications for patient care
- Develops, implements, and evaluates nutrition education programs
- Oversees food service operations to ensure compliance with all regulations
- Participates in quality assurance activities to improve patient care
- Keeps abreast of the latest developments in the field of nutrition through continuing education
- Serves as a resource to other health care professionals, community groups, and the general public on matters of nutrition
- Performs administrative duties such as budgeting, marketing, and personnel management
Registered Dietitian Job Requirements
In order to become a Registered Dietitian, one must complete an accredited Didactic Program in Dietetics and a supervised practice program. Once these requirements are met, the individual must pass a national exam administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. In order to maintain registration, dietitians must complete continuing education credits every five years.
Registered Dietitian Skills
- Assess patients' nutritional needs, diet restrictions and current health condition
- Develop and implement nutrition-related care plans
- Educate patients and their families about healthy eating habits
- Monitor patients' progress and response to nutritional interventions
- Modify nutrition-related care plans as needed
- Counsel patients on how to make lifestyle changes to improve their health
- Collaborate with other members of the healthcare team to develop comprehensive care plans
- Write progress reports and case histories documenting patient care and progress
- Keep abreast of the latest nutrition research and developments
- Maintain accurate patient records
- Adhere to all ethical and legal guidelines for healthcare professionals
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How to become a Registered Dietitian
There are many steps that one must take in order to become a Registered Dietitian. The first step is to obtain a bachelor’s degree in dietetics, nutrition, food science, or a related field. After completing an accredited program, the next step is to pass a national exam administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Once the exam is passed, the individual must complete a supervised practice program. After the supervised practice program is completed, the individual must then pass another national exam, this time administered by the State Board of Examiners for Dietitians. After all of these steps are completed, the individual will be a Registered Dietitian and can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, clinics, schools, and research facilities.
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