Annette M. Kobriger, RD MPH MPA Ms. Kobriger is a Registered Dietitian, with over 25 years experience, having served in long term care facilities for the state of Wisconsin and in private practice. She currently consults for long term care facilities and is dedicated to improving the nutritional status of the long term care patient. She is a graduate of Penn State University with a degree in hospital dietetics and received a Master's degree in Public Health from the University of Minnesota and a Master's degree in Public Administration from the University of Missouri. She is the principal of Kobriger Presents, which markets publications, seminars and provides consultation to long term care facilities.
Prevention is the goal and early detection is the key.
Preventing weight loss and malnutrition is a new key for maintaining census. All members of the multidisciplinary team are necessary to prevent weight loss in the long term care resident. The role of the Director of Nursing and other health care team members is the focus of this article. Quality of Care indicators for nutritional status, as considered by the surveyors, are weight loss, dehydration, pressure ulcers, tube feedings and infections. This article discusses coordination of the health care team, and the DON really can make a difference.