Consulting dietitians in nursing homes: time in role functions and perceived problems

A mail survey was conducted to describe Illinois consultant dietitians' perceptions of time adequacy for fulfilling role responsibilities and to identify dietary problems in nursing homes. Approximately three-fourths (74%) of the 43 respondents reported insufficient time at nursing homes, although all met or exceeded state consulting time requirements. Role functions receiving the greatest time investments were in the categories of foodservice management and nutrition care. Resident nutrition care issues were often rated as major problems. Dietitians' perceptions of nutrition care problems and inadequacy of time to perform role functions indicate a need to re-evaluate priorities for role performance and to obtain increased service hours. Methods to increase consulting time should include effective marketing of services and involvement in legislative and regulatory processes.