From the Academy
Position Paper
Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: Malnutrition (Undernutrition) Screening Tools for All Adults

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2019.09.011Get rights and content

Abstract

It is the position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics that, based upon current evidence, the Malnutrition Screening Tool should be used to screen adults for malnutrition (undernutrition) regardless of their age, medical history, or setting. Malnutrition (undernutrition) screening is a simple process intended to quickly recognize individuals who may have a malnutrition diagnosis. While numerous malnutrition screening tools are in use, their levels of validity, agreement, reliability, and generalizability vary. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics reviewed the body of evidence supporting malnutrition screening tools and determined a single tool for identifying adults in all settings who may have malnutrition, regardless of their age or medical history. The Nutrition Screening for Adults Workgroup conducted a systematic review of the most robust evidence to promote using the highest-quality malnutrition screening tool available.

Cited by (0)

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics develops position papers to assist in promoting the public’s optimal nutrition, health and well-being. This position was adopted by the Council on Research on August 6, 2019. This position is in effect until December 31, 2027. All requests to use portions of the position or republish in its entirety must be directed to the Academy at [email protected].

Authors: Annalynn Skipper, PhD, RD (American Medical Association, Chicago, IL); Anne Coltman, MS, RD, LDN, CNSC (Trinity Health, Melrose Park, IL); Jennifer Tomesko, DCN, RD, CNSC (Rutgers University, School of Health Professions, Newark, NJ); Pamela Charney, PhD, RD (University of North Georgia, Dahlonega, GA); Judith Porcari, MBA, MS, RD (Lehman College, Bronx, NY); Tami A. Piemonte, MS, RDN, LD/N (Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Evidence Analysis Center, Chicago, IL); Deepa Handu, PhD, RD, LDN (Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Evidence Analysis Center, Chicago, IL); Feon W. Cheng, PhD, MPH, RDN, CHTS-CP (Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Evidence Analysis Center, Chicago, IL).

STATEMENT OF POTENTIAL CONFLICT OF INTEREST The authors of the paper have no conflicts to disclose. A. Skipper is an employee of the American Medical Association (AMA), but the ideas expressed in this position are those of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and do not reflect AMA policy.

FUNDING/SUPPORT There is no funding to disclose.

Reviewers: Constantina Papoutsakis, PhD, RDN (Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Chicago, IL); Jason Switt (Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Chicago, IL); Jill Bala Kohn, MS, RDN, LDN (Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Chicago, IL); Sharon M. McCauley, MS, MBA, RDN, LDN, FADA, FAND (Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Chicago, IL); Marsha Schofield, MS, RD, LD, FAND (Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Chicago, IL). This position paper was made available for Academy member feedback.

Systematic Review Workgroup: The authors would like to thank Erin Pover, MS, RDN, CSOWM, LDN (Workgroup member from 2016 to March 2018), Kathy Hoy, EdD, RDN (lead analyst from 2016 and July 2017), and Margaret Foster, MS, MPH, AHIP (librarian) for their contributions to this project. A full listing of the systematic review project team is available on www.andeal.org/nsa.

View Abstract