What is the purpose of a nutrition screening assessment?

The purpose of a nutrition screening assessment is primarily to identify individuals who are at risk of malnutrition or who are already malnourished and may require further intervention. This involves evaluating various factors such as dietary intake, medical history, weight changes, and other indicators that signify potential nutritional deficiencies or health complications. By pinpointing those who are malnourished or at risk, healthcare professionals can initiate appropriate interventions tailored to improve their nutritional status and overall health.

While collecting baseline nutritional data, evaluating trends, and measuring health status are important aspects of nutrition and overall wellness, these are not the primary focus of a nutrition screening assessment. The assessment's urgent goal is to quickly identify individuals who need immediate nutritional support so that further actions can be taken to address their dietary needs and improve their health outcomes.