Find a dietary assessment tool that can be used either generally or
for a specific alteration in health. You can use your favorite search
engine (Google, Bing, Yahoo Search, AltaVista, to name a few). You may
find the tool on a governmental data base, being used by an
organization or facility, or in a journals and registries. You may
decide to select a general tool or one that you can include in your
course project for the disease selected.
When you have found your assessment tool, evaluate its effectiveness by answering the following questions.
- What is the purpose of this tool?
- Do you believe that the purpose is fulfilled based on the questions being asked? Why?
- In what ways does the tool account for the individual perceptions and needs of the client?
- Is there a nutritional history included? What does it cover?
- Is the tool easy to use? Why or why not.
- Does the tool provide enough information to determine next steps or interventions? Explain.
The writing assignment should be no more than 2 pages and APA
Editorial Format must be used for citations and references used. Attach a
copy of the assessment tool.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
The role of dietary assessment tools in determining dietary intakes and evaluating nutritional status is of great significance in the healthcare system. It allows for the development of interventions, counseling, and monitoring progress towards better health outcomes. In this answer, we will focus on finding and evaluating a dietary assessment tool.
Answer:
After conducting a search, I found the “Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025” as an effective dietary assessment tool. The tool is a joint effort by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to provide science-based advice for Americans’ dietary practices.
1. Purpose: The purpose of this tool is to promote healthy eating habits, prevent chronic diseases, and maintain a healthy weight.
2. Purpose fulfillment: Yes, the tool fulfills its purpose based on the questions being asked. It includes questions related to key food groups, essential nutrients, and calories intake needed for an individual’s optimal health. The guidelines promote balanced nutrition, variety, moderation, and personal preferences to meet the individual’s dietary needs.
3. Individual perceptions and needs: The tool accounts for individual perceptions and needs by providing age, sex, and activity levels specific guidelines that promote adequate nutrient intake. It also includes tips to adapt dietary practices to personal preferences and cultural values.
4. Nutritional history: The tool includes a nutritional history that covers food records, 24-hour recalls, and food frequency questionnaires (FFQs). The FFQs assess long-term intake frequency of specific foods and nutrients. Additionally, the tool provides information on serving sizes, portion control, and assessing the adequacy of energy intake.
5. Ease of use: The tool is easy to use and navigate. It is available on the USDA website and provides access to printable versions of the guidelines and tips on how to use the guidelines.
6. Information provided: The tool provides enough information to determine next steps or interventions. It provides guidelines on healthy food choices, meal planning, and setting goals to improve overall dietary intake. Additionally, it includes resources for healthcare providers and educators to promote healthy eating habits.
Conclusion:
Overall, the Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025 is an effective dietary assessment tool that can be used generally or specific alterations in health. It accounts for individual perceptions and needs and provides enough information to determine next steps or interventions. Healthcare providers, educators, and individuals can use these guidelines to promote and maintain a healthy dietary intake and prevent chronic diseases.
