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Dietetic Technician
The dietetic technician works on a health care team assisting the dietitian. The dietetic technician specializes in either food service management or nutritional care services.
In food service management, the dietetic technician assists in the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of food programs. In a large hospital, the dietetic technician works under the supervision of an administrative dietitian. In a small hospital or extended care facility, the dietetic technician may be responsible for the daily food service operation and is usually supervised by a consultant dietitian.
In nutritional services, the dietetic technician works under the supervision of a clinical or community dietitian and provides nutrition education and care to individuals and groups in health care and community facilities.
| Some of the responsibilities include: |
| • | Preparing quality food |
| • | Developing standardized recipes |
| • | Selecting, training and scheduling personnel |
| • | Using computer systems to calculate payroll |
| • | Monitoring cost control procedures |
| • | Procuring and storing food, supplies, and equipment |
| • | Recording laboratory data and verifying dietary orders |
| • | Screening patients for nutritional status |
| • | Providing diet counseling and education |
| • | Developing nutrition care plans |
| • | Interpreting and implementing quality assurance procedures, sanitation and safety standards |
Job Outlook
As a result of a greater emphasis on health care throughout the country, there are a greater number of employment opportunities. The general public is becoming increasingly interested in nutrition. Consumers want more information about foods and their nutritional values on product labels, so jobs in marketing and food manufacturing have increased.
Educational Requirements
To become a dietetic technician, individuals must receive an associate degree from an ADA-approved dietetic program.
The dietetic assistant program is one year in length and leads to certification. These programs are offered at community colleges which have the ADA-approval. Professional registration is available through the American Dietetic Association.
Educational Programs
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