Case Study
Ms.Lopez is a widowed 68-year-old Nicaraguan woman, an immigrant who has lived in the United States for ten years.She lives in a second-floor walk-up apartment with her daughter and son-in-law and their four children.Ms.Lopez is admitted to the hospital and is diagnosed with a stroke and has weakness in her left side.She complains of coughing when she drinks and feels that food sometimes gets caught in her throat.She has diabetes and high blood pressure and is on several oral medications.She does not check her sugar because she does not feel comfortable pricking her finger.Her body mass index (BMI) is 33.Ms.Lopez is undocumented and uninsured.
-How does the information gathered from the above disciplines assist the registered dietitian in his/her assessment of the patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The information gathered from various disciplines such as nursing, medical, and social work can help the registered dietitian to assess the patient's nutritional needs and create a tailored plan of care. The RD can use the information to identify any contraindications to the patient's diet, understand the patient's cultural and social background, and make appropriate referrals to other healthcare professionals as needed. The RD is also required to utilize critical thinking skills to facilitate goal-setting and problem-solving to develop the best plan of care for the patient. The information gathered from multiple disciplines such as nursing, medical, and social work assist the registered dietitian in his/her assessment of the patient. As a member of the healthcare team, the RD utilizes critical thinking skills and incorporates the information gathered to identify the patient's nutritional needs, problem solve, and make decisions. The patient's medical history, medications, health condition, social status, and cultural background are all important factors in the RD's assessment and intervention plan.

Case Study Ms.Lopez Is a Widowed 68-Year-Old Nicaraguan Woman, an Immigrant Who