Clinical Nutrition Examination
Common nutritional disorders can be assessed by close examination of skin, nails, mouth, and eyes [3].
Skin
Dermatitis—vitamin B6, zinc
Impaired wound healing—vitamin C, zinc, protein
Rash (arms, legs)—niacin
Bruising—vitamin K1
Dry flaky skin—essential fatty acids, vitamin A Depigmentation—protein calorie malnutrition Pallor—iron, vitamin B12, folate Nails
Spoon-shaped—iron deficiency Discolored—selenium toxicity Ridged—protein calorie malnutrition
Hair
Discoloration, dullness, loss—protein calorie malnutrition Alopecia—biotin deficiency Eyes
Poor night vision—vitamin A Oral
Swollen, bleeding gums—vitamin C Bones and Joints
Beading ribs, bowlegs—vitamin D Neurological
Disorientation—thiamine
Peripheral neuropathy—thiamine, vitamin B6, vitamin B12
Psychosocial Support
Reviewing the bariatric surgery candidate’s age, occupation, educational level, marital status, income, living arrangements, and dependents provides a more complete snapshot of how to proceed with the nutrition education needed for success postsurgery.