Dietitians

Dietitians apply the science of human nutrition to help people understand the relationship between food and health, how to make appropriate dietary choices to attain and maintain health, and how to prevent and treat illness and disease.

  • The Job
  • The Facts
  • Related Courses

What the job involves

  • Plans diets and menus, and instructs people on the requirements and importance of diet and on the planning and preparation of food
  • Supervises the preparation and serving of meals
  • Collects, organises and assesses data relating to health and nutritional status of individuals, groups and communities
  • Monitors food intake and quality to provide nutritional care
  • Calculates nutritional values of food served
  • Plans, conducts and evaluates nutrition intervention programs and compiles educational material
  • Provides nutrition assessments, nutrition management, and nutrition education, research and training
  • Consults with other health professionals and related workers to manage the dietary and nutritional needs of patients

Key values of workers in Dietitians

  • Independence

    Occupations that satisfy this work value allow employees to work on their own and make decisions. Corresponding needs are Creativity, Responsibility and Autonomy.

  • Achievement

    Occupations that satisfy this work value are results oriented and allow employees to use their strongest abilities, giving them a feeling of accomplishment. Corresponding needs are Ability Utilization and Achievement.

  • Recognition

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer advancement, potential for leadership, and are often considered prestigious. Corresponding needs are Advancement, Authority, Recognition and Social Status.

  • Working Conditions

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer job security and good working conditions. Corresponding needs are Activity, Compensation, Independence, Security, Variety and Working Conditions.

  • Support

    Occupations that satisfy this work value offer supportive management that stands behind employees. Corresponding needs are Company Policies, Supervision: Human Relations and Supervision: Technical.

Top skills required for workers in Dietitians

  • Active Listening

    Giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times.

  • Speaking

    Talking to others to convey information effectively.

  • Critical Thinking

    Using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.

  • Social Perceptiveness

    Being aware of others' reactions and understanding why they react as they do.

  • Judgment and Decision Making

    Considering the relative costs and benefits of potential actions to choose the most appropriate one.