Objectives:

Describe the components of the nutrition-focused physical examination
Demonstrate novice skills in completing a nutrition-focused physical exam to include assessment of body fat, muscle, micronutrient status, fluid accumulation, abdominal exam, and functional performance
Identify feeding tube location and ileus/bowel obstruction and quantify lean body and fat mass through review of abdominal radiographs, computed tomography (CT) scans, ultrasound, and bioelectrical impedance studies
Use information obtained in a nutrition-focused physical assessment to develop a nutrition care plan that includes diagnosis, intervention, monitoring, and reassessment

Deborah A. Andris MSN, APNP

Nurse Practitioner, Division of Colorectal Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI