Role functions of dietitians in New York State nursing homes

The purpose of this study was to ascertain whether there is consensus among dietitians and administrators on the role functions of dietitians in New York State nursing homes. The study examined role expectations and reported role performance by full-time and part-time dietitians. Responses were received from a total of 535 individuals in 273 nursing homes (32%) constituting three distinct groups: 210 administrators, 200 full-time dietitians, and 125 part-time dietitians. Results indicated that all three groups exhibited consensus on 36 of the 47 role functions that should be performed by dietitians.