Question:
Dear Donna,
How can RNs specialize in nutrition without being registered dietitians? What opportunities are there for nurses to specialize in nutrition?
Sincerely,
Recent Nurse Graduate
Dear Donna replies:
Dear Recent Nurse Graduate,
Your nurse practice act should allow you to coach, counsel, and teach about nutrition issues. Many nurses have become both employed or self-employed, working as wellness coaches or working with clients to help them lose weight or manage issues such as diabetes and hypertension. There is a difference between "prescribing" and teaching and coaching. You can check with a nurse attorney to be clear about your boundaries, how to market yourself if self-employed, and other ways to limit liability in this role.
Years ago, I worked in a medical weight control center and taught basic nutrition to clients as well as therapeutic nutrition for weight loss, managing chronic illness, etc. Similar employment opportunities also exist in places such as insurance companies, holistic health and wellness centers, and diabetic treatment clinics.
Nutrition and healthy eating are at the forefront of healthcare and wellness promotion these days, and nurses are uniquely poised to play a significant role in the process.
Best wishes,
Donna
