Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

Why is it essential to assess a patient's nutritional needs prior to meal planning?

1. To determine their favorite foods

2. To ensure meals meet their specific dietary requirements for health

3. To reduce food costs

4. To create a diverse menu

The correct answer is: To ensure meals meet their specific dietary requirements for health

Assessing a patient's nutritional needs prior to meal planning is crucial because it ensures that the meals provided align with their specific dietary requirements for health. Each individual may have unique health conditions, dietary restrictions, and nutritional needs that must be considered to promote optimal health and recovery. For example, a patient with diabetes may require meals that help maintain blood sugar levels, while a person with heart disease may need meals low in sodium and saturated fats. By identifying these requirements through assessment, dietary managers can design meal plans that not only support the patient's overall health but also assist in managing any medical conditions. This tailored approach can lead to improved patient outcomes and satisfaction, as well as prevent complications that could arise from inadequate or improperly balanced nutrition. While understanding a patient's favorite foods can contribute to meal satisfaction, reducing food costs is typically a secondary consideration, and creating a diverse menu, while important for variety and taste, should not take precedence over nutritional adequacy and health needs. Therefore, the primary focus should always be on meeting individual health-related dietary needs to ensure effective meal planning.