Building a bridge from classroom to clinical practice, this casebook is composed of 29 realistic case studies appropriate for introductory and advanced level courses in nutrition and medical nutrition therapy. Each case study uses the medical record as its structure and is designed to resemble the electronic medical record. The student "solves the case" by using the medical record information provided such as hospital admission data, laboratory test results, intake/output records, and the physician and other health care provider progress notes. The case is followed by a series of questions that focus on pathophysiology; assessment; clinical, nutritional, and behavioral outcomes; interventions; and appropriate follow-up for the patient. Questions are posed within the framework of the Nutrition Care Process. This real-world approach helps prepare the student for the professional setting. Objectives for student learning within each case are built around the nutrition care process and competencies for dietetic education. Faculty will find that they can incorporate these cases in multiple ways. Using the entire case allows for students to thoroughly research the MNT for a particular diagnosis. Instructors can also use components of cases within their classroom teaching to highlight particular topics such as malnutrition, nutrition support, or fluid and electrolyte balance. New one-page excerpts of cases guide the instructor and student to focus on an abbreviated version of the case allowing for small group work and problem based learning.
