Reflection Statement (NUTR 408)

In Medical Nutrition Therapy II course, I was introduced to selected diseases such as

renal disease, AIDS and HIV, eating disorders and many other serious and life threatening health
complications. I got familiarized with the nutrition related consequences these patients may
come across and learned to critically think and apply disciplinary knowledge when planning their
nutritional needs. In addition, I now have the knowledge to identify cultural and ethical values
when making important and sensitive decisions about critically ill patients and come up with
effective interventions that are realistic. I have the knowledge to understand why a dietitian in a
hospital setting has such an important role and what a difference she/he can make in patients
healing process and recovery. I learned to carefully research and look for information related to
diseases of each patient, learn about the medications they are taking, look for any possible sideeffects or food-drug interactions, their common nutrient deficiencies and many other details a
registered dietitian considers before creating a care plan.
I had the opportunity to view videos and read research articles and other scientific
material to learn about the supporting information as well as different perspectives about certain
topics. I learned the importance of using current data and evaluation tools when working with
patients. I learned that there are always new and important research and information coming out
and it is crucial for a dietitian to be aware of the current trends and evaluation tools in the field.
The information I learned in this class has helped me to gather a vast amount of
knowledge in this multidisciplinary area and from there it is my responsibility to keep myself
updated with the current research and assessment tools used. I will apply this knowledge to any
decision I am making as a professional in regards to a patient.