Upon completion of this module the student should be able to:
1. Assess a client's nutritional status using physical examination, diet history, and results of laboratory and clinical tests.
2. Identify factors that may alter nutrition.
3. Devise a plan for appropriate diet therapy based on client assessment, the stage of the disease, and its symptoms.
4. Identify the most common causes of malnutrition in patients with cancer or AIDS.
5. Describe measures to enhance food intake and retention.
6. Identify dietary modifications to increase amounts of needed nutrients.
7. Describe methods for the following alterations: modifying consistency, texture, and flavor suitable to the patient's stage of illness and/or treatment; increase the total amount of nutrients; modifications compatible with the client's social, cultural, and ethnic beliefs.
8. In conjunction with the oncology team (doctor, dietitian, pharmacist), implement
 a nutrition care plan to promote optimal nutrition.
9. Provide nutrition instructions and council to patient, family, and/or significant others of patients with cancer or AIDS.
10.Revise nutrition care plans as situations change.