Abbreviation

Spring came yesterday to the northern hemisphere, and in the DC area was rung in with a last fight for winter. So with spring comes dieting because summer is just around the corner and everyone wants to look their best when wearing the least amount of clothing.

Today's abbreviation came from there.  Again, a title.  This is someone whom you may not want to depose in a medical malpractice case as they make recommendations but usually have very little influence in the application of their recommendations.  Tomorrow I'll elaborate on their recommendations as I finally pick back up our series on pressure ulcers.

Without further ado:

RD- registered dietitian

The registered dietitian is a specially trained person who addresses the dietary needs of our clients. They make recommendations to the best diet to meet the nutritional needs of the client, including healing. 

Many times they have their own section of a chart where they along with the staff that works in the dietary office comments on the status of the clients dietary needs and makes suggestions. 

Examples

Debbie Dieter RD 
Seen by RD recommendations reviewed and approved by MD. 

These are about the only places that you see RD in the records, however frequently you see the word dietitian. The registered dietitian like the nurse has specialized training in the dietary needs of the clients they see.