When a patient is identified as nutritionally at-risk on the initial screen, what action should be taken?

When a patient is identified as nutritionally at-risk on the initial screen, what action should be taken?

• A. No action
• B. Refer to provider for nutrition assessment and intervention
• C. Re-screen in 6 months
• D. Discontinue PN

Answer: (B)

When a patient is identified as nutritionally at-risk on the initial screen, the next step is to obtain a formal nutrition assessment and start an intervention plan. The initial screen is a flag that prompts a deeper evaluation by a qualified clinician (often a dietitian or the nutrition support team) to quantify deficits, identify underlying issues, and determine caloric and protein needs, fluid and electrolyte considerations, and the appropriate mode of nutrition support (if needed). This assessment leads to an individualized plan and ongoing monitoring. Other options fall short because a) doing nothing ignores the risk identified, b) waiting six months delays necessary care that could prevent deterioration, and c) discontinuing parenteral nutrition without a full assessment and plan is unsafe and inappropriate. The correct action is to refer for a comprehensive nutrition assessment and intervention.

When a patient is identified as nutritionally at-risk on the initial screen, the next step is to obtain a formal nutrition assessment and start an intervention plan. The initial screen is a flag that prompts a deeper evaluation by a qualified clinician (often a dietitian or the nutrition support team) to quantify deficits, identify underlying issues, and determine caloric and protein needs, fluid and electrolyte considerations, and the appropriate mode of nutrition support (if needed). This assessment leads to an individualized plan and ongoing monitoring.

Other options fall short because a) doing nothing ignores the risk identified, b) waiting six months delays necessary care that could prevent deterioration, and c) discontinuing parenteral nutrition without a full assessment and plan is unsafe and inappropriate. The correct action is to refer for a comprehensive nutrition assessment and intervention.