Nutrition plays an important role in being healthy. Proper nutrition is especially critical for patients who are hospitalized or have a medical condition. Inadequate nutrition can compromise recovery and slow healing. That’s why the role of a clinical dietitian is so important.
Dietitian Job Duties
Clinical dietitians assess and monitor the nutritional needs of patients based on several factors, including their medical condition. Dietitians often consult with nurses and doctors to coordinate their patients’ nutritional needs. In some cases, this may involve recommendations for intravenous or tube feedings. In other instances, it may include developing meal plans, which take into consideration the patient’s dietary restrictions and calorie requirements.
The exact responsibilities of a clinical dietitian may vary based on what type of facility in which they work. For example, hospital-based dietitians may be responsible for the nutritional needs of patients on a few specific floors, such a general medical floor, intensive care unit, or telemetry. Different types of patients have different needs. Duties may include helping patients decide what they should eat and understanding food allergies.
Another aspect of the job is education. Clinical dietitians educate patients (and sometimes their family members) on how to make good nutritional choices. Education may include helping patients understand their dietary restrictions and what foods to avoid.
Some clinical dietitians specialize in managing the dietary needs of critically ill patients or those who have certain conditions, such as diabetes or obesity. Clinical dietitians may also be involved in research and have supervisory responsibilities, including supervising dietary techs and other kitchen staff.
Education and Qualifications for Clinical Dietitians
In order to work as a dietitian in a healthcare facility, a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in nutrition is usually required. A bachelor’s in nutrition program often includes classes in microbiology, food science, chemistry and food service management.
Some healthcare facilities prefer to hire registered dietitians. The registered dietitian credential is offered through the Commission of Dietetic Registration. In order to qualify for the credential, applicants must have completed an Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics approved bachelor’s degree in nutrition, which includes 1200 hours of a supervised internship. After completing the required education and training, applicants must pass the CDR registration examination. For those interested in advanced training, master’s degree programs are also available in nutrition.
Some states also license dietitians. State licensing requirements vary. It’s best to check with the state you plan to work in to determine specific requirements.
For those looking to specialize, there are several additional credentials, which can be obtained in the field of clinical nutrition. For example, dietitians can become board certified specialists in renal nutrition, pediatric nutrition, or sports dietetics.
Clinical Dietitian Salary and Career Options
Clinical dietitians work in hospitals, nursing homes, public health settings, and other healthcare facilities. Opportunities exist for both full-time and part-time employment. Clinical dietitians may work varied hours, including evenings and weekends.
According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the average salary for dietitians in 2015 was just over $67,000 a year. Salary may depend on job location, experience, and credentials. The job market for clinical dietitians appears to be good. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, the jobs for dietitians are expected to grow much faster than average over the next ten years.
Personal Traits Needed
Beyond educational requirements, it’s helpful to have certain personal traits to do well as a clinical dietitian. For example, dietitians should have excellent communications skills. There are instances where dietitians teach patients about their dietary needs, consult with nurses, and educate patients’ family members on how to make sound nutritional choices. It’s helpful to be someone who can talk to a wide variety of people with ease. Additional traits needed include compassion, empathy, and problems solving skills.
