Practices and Utilization Patterns of Nutrition Screening Tools among Pakistani Dietitians
Practices and Utilization Patterns of Nutrition Screening
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54393/df.v7i01.194Keywords:
Nutrition Screening Tools, Malnutrition, Dietitians, Subjective Global Assessment, Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool, Mini Nutritional AssessmentAbstract
A high prevalence of malnutrition in Pakistan requires an urgent need to identify at-risk individuals so that they can be provided with immediate nutrition care, especially in hospital and community settings. Therefore, the use of validated nutrition screening tools (e.g., Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST), SGA, Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA)) by dietitians for early identification and intervention of nutritional deficiencies is of utmost importance. Objective: To evaluate the use of nutrition screening tools among Pakistani dietitians. Methods: This cross-sectional study, based on a purposive sampling technique, utilized an online survey form (Google Form) which was launched on different social media platforms, especially WhatsApp groups of Pakistani Dietitians. A total of 87 dietitians participated in the study by filling out this form on a voluntary basis. Data about dietitians’ demographics, workplace practices, and screening tools use were collected and analyzed in SPSS version 23.0 and presented in descriptive form (percentages and frequencies). Results: Hospitals were the primary setting (89.7%) of dietitians’ practices, followed by consulting and community (3.4% both). Mostly dietitians (98.9%) were aware of the Nutrition Screening tools, but only 58.6% currently use the validated nutrition screening tools (e.g., MUST, NRS 2002, MST, MNA, SGA) in their workplace. The most commonly used nutritional assessment tools were SGA (52%), MUST (44%), and MNA (28%). Conclusions: While dietitians recognize malnutrition’s prevalence, the use of validated nutrition screening tools is limited in their work settings. Therefore, standardized training and policy interventions are recommended to enhance tool utilization and address disparities, particularly in underserved regions.
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