Nutrition Assessment
GDM: Assessment of Biochemical Data, Medical Tests, and
Procedures of Women with GDM
➤ The RDN should evaluate available data of women with GDM and
recommend as indicated: Biochemical data, medical tests and procedures
including, but not limited to:
> Glycemic tests: Glucose challenge test (GCT), oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT),
glycosylated hemoglobin (A1C), fasting glucose, random glucose
> Use of self-monitoring blood glucose (SMBG) meters and urinary ketones, if
recommended
> Maternal and fetal testing (e.g., ultrasounds, biophysical profile, non-stress
testing)
> Nutritional anemia profile (e.g., hemoglobin, hematocrit, folate, B
12
, iron)
> Vitamin D and other micronutrient levels, as appropriate
> Thyroid function
> Kidney function.
Assessment of these factors is needed to effectively determine nutrition
diagnoses and formulate a nutrition care plan. (Consensus, Imperative)
GDM: Assessment of Nutrition-Focused Physical Findings and Client
History of Women with GDM
➤ The RDN should evaluate available data regarding the client history and
nutrition-focused physical findings of women with GDM including, but not
limited to:
> Patient/Family/Client Medical/Health history
• Age
• Single or multiple fetuses
• Weeks of gestation; estimated date of delivery (EDD); method of delivery
• Previous obstetric history including GDM
• Risk factors for developing GDM or diabetes, including family history of
diabetes
• General health; vital signs
• Pertinent medical and dental history including other diseases, conditions and
illnesses
• Gastrointestinal discomforts: Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation,
heartburn and ptyalism
• Health literacy and numeracy
• Education and occupation
• Social history: Psychological/socioeconomic factors (e.g., social support).
Assessment of these factors is needed to effectively determine nutrition
diagnoses and formulate a nutrition care plan. (Consensus, Imperative)
