A hundred years is a long time in life but not in the evolution of a profession. Nutrition and Dietetics, organized as a professional organization in 1917, has made many advances, but "history tends to repeat itself." In 2017, the profession is reexamining its academic preparation of students to meet future demands in this technology-driven world that eschews personal communications. In this issue, our authors have tackled new ways to deliver nutritional care (celiac disease [CD], bariatrics), to improve collaborations (interprofessional education [IPE], narrative diet counseling [NDC]), and to apply technology (computer instruction, nutrition Apps).
Hand and Abram examine the roles and responsibilities of clinical nutrition managers (CNMs) and dietetic technicians, registered (DTRs). The most frequent responsibilities of CNMs in 101 acute care facilities are policy development and monitoring of quality care. DTRs are mainly involved with direct patient care, nutrition screening, assessment, and basic patient education.
IPE is a method of training to increase collaborative learning among 2 or more disciplines. Its purpose is to train preprofessionals across disciplines, so they will work well together in practice settings. The examples include training in a pediatric dentistry clinic and in today's dietetics education programs.
As part of a research project on NDC in Denmark, the qualitative component in this issue describes the NDC approach compared with motivational interviewing. Kristensen and colleagues report qualitative statements from 20 dietitians that reveal an opportunity for improving relationships and collaboration between clients and dietitians.
Nutrition recommendations in bariatric care require a good knowledge base according to Galicki and Coccia. A survey of 249 registered dietitians (RDs) who work with bariatric patients elicited responses on their treatment recommendations in practice. They found a need for continuing education based on a low level of knowledge about bariatric treatment options of practicing RDs.
A case study by Acosta focused on a young patient with anorexia nervosa and premenopausal osteoporosis. A multifactorial approach to retard or stop bone damage must be combined with normalized eating and nutrients since bone density is acquired by the age of 18 to 22 years. A comprehensive plan for this case addresses many of the challenges that exist to manage skeletal decline both medically and nutritionally.
Computer-assisted instruction (CAI) has been applied for teaching dietetic students about the nutrition-focused physical examination (NFPE). A pilot study assessed changes in knowledge scores using a CAI module on NFPE. All 21 participants significantly increased their scores and gave positive comments about this method of learning.
Use of the Internet has increased for providing sound nutrition and health information to patients. A survey, designed for RDs who see patients with CD, requested information from them on their adoption of Twitter, Facebook, and other applications for teaching themselves and their patients. Approximately 400 respondents preferred research publications for their own CD education, and handouts were the preferred mechanism for patient education.
Interest in tools for selecting a health-promoting diet targeted 5 nutritional rating systems for evaluation by RDs. Faltus conducted an electronic survey of Academy members using a 50-item online questionnaire. Questions asked about their familiarity with each system and their perceptions of its impact on food choices and disease management.
Thanks to all of you for your contributions to the journal, Topics in Clinical Nutrition. Please continue to share your experiences in clinical practice and to submit manuscripts about our important and evolving profession of nutrition and dietetics.
-Judith A. Gilbride, PhD, RD, FAND, CDN
Editor