Registered Dietitians are experts in the field of nutrition and provide dietary advice on a range of health conditions. Dietitians use a patient-centred approach to promote and deliver quality nutrition care throughout Island Health.
Clinical dietitians assist patients in hospital and residential care to improve their overall nutrition.
Ask your physician or nurse practitioner for a referral to a Dietitian if you or your loved one are experiencing:
- Loss of appetite or decreased interest in eating
- Ongoing nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Unintentional weight loss or unexplained weight gain
- Decreased energy and strength
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Difficulty managing meals and grocery shopping at home
- Issues accessing food in the community; requiring information on food banks, meal and grocery delivery programs etc.
- Uncertainty on how to eat well for your diagnosis/ condition
In preparation for discharge, dietitians also work closely with patients/ and their loved ones to provide nutrition education. This helps set patients up for success when they leave hospital and head back into the community.