Estimate intake with a structured recall or an intake estimate, and observe a meal or feeding when possible.
Calculate or note the percentage of unintentional weight change over time — the commonly used malnutrition-risk thresholds are greater than 5% in 30 days or greater than 10% in 180 days — as a risk screen, interpreted with the weight trend.
Assess dentition and the ability to chew, and screen swallowing safety (mechanics in Taste / Swallowing).
Screen malnutrition risk with the agency's adopted validated tool and the characteristics of reduced intake, weight loss, and muscle wasting.
For enteral nutrition: verify placement and check residual or tolerance per order, inspect the site, and compare the formula and rate to the order; flush per protocol.
Reconcile intake and weight against the prescribed therapeutic diet and any disease-specific parameters.
