Webinars

Extending the Nutrition-Focused Physical Exam: Assessing Clinical Signs of Micronutrient Deficiencies

What factors contribute to micronutrient deficiencies?

Presenter(s): Jillian Hyttenhove, MA, RD, CSOWM, LD, CHES

Date: 13 May 2026

Time: 2-3 PM ET

Location: Live webinar

Continuing Education Credits: Nurse Contact 1.0 CE; Dietitian 1.0 CPEU

Summary

In this free, live accredited webinar, Jillian Hyttenhove, MA, RD, CSOWM, LD, CHES, will address common micronutrient deficiencies and the populations most at risk. Participants will learn to recognize key physical signs of deficiency by examining changes in the skin, hair, nails, eyes, and oral cavity. The webinar will also highlight practical strategies for incorporating micronutrient assessment into the nutrition-focused physical exam, helping clinicians strengthen their ability to identify and address nutrient-related concerns in a timely and accurate manner.

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Extending the Nutrition-Focused Physical Exam: Assessing Clinical Signs of Micronutrient Deficiencies

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Key Takeaways:

  • Physical signs of micronutrient deficiencies often appear in visible areas—such as the skin, hair, nails, eyes, and oral cavity—providing valuable clues during patient assessment.
  • Incorporating targeted micronutrient screening into the nutrition-focused physical exam (NFPE) enhances a clinician’s ability to identify deficiencies early and guide appropriate interventions.
  • Early recognition and assessment of micronutrient deficiencies can improve patient outcomes, especially in high-risk or medically complex populations.

Related Questions:

  • Which populations are at highest risk for micronutrient deficiencies?
    Older adults, individuals with chronic gastrointestinal disorders, those with limited dietary intake, people with increased metabolic needs (e.g., pregnancy), and individuals with food insecurity are among the highest risk groups.
  • What role does the skin exam play in micronutrient assessment during the NFPE?
    The skin can reveal signs of deficiencies such as dryness, rashes, hyperkeratosis, bruising, or poor wound healing, making it a key area for visual assessment.

Presenter Bio(s):

Jillian Hyttenhove, MA, RD, CSOWM, LD, CHES

Medical Affairs & External Engagement Liaison
Global Medical Affairs & Research
Abbott Nutrition
Columbus, OH, USA

Jillian Hyttenhove is a Medical Affairs & External Engagement Liaison at Abbott Nutrition. Prior to joining Abbott, she worked in corporate wellness for several large national and global companies.

Jillian completed her bachelor’s degree in Dietetics at Bowling Green State University and her dietetic internship at East Carolina University. She went on to complete her Master of Arts in Health Education at East Carolina University as well. Following the completion of her dietetic internship, she served as the lead outpatient dietitian for all outpatient services at a community hospital in North Carolina. She then collaborated with a lead obesity specialist to create a comprehensive weight management program at the University of North Carolina, where she also served as a research dietitian on clinical trials.

Jillian is a Registered Dietitian, a Board-Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management, and a Board-Certified Specialist in Health Education.

References:

  • White JV, et al. Academy Malnutrition Work Group, A.S.P.E.N. Malnutrition Task Force and the A.S.P.E.N. Board of Directors Consensus Statement: Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition: Characteristics Recommended for the Identification and Documentation of Adult Malnutrition (Undernutrition). JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2012;36:275-283. 
  • Jensen GL, et al. GLIM criteria for the diagnosis of malnutrition: a consensus report from the global clinical nutrition community. JPEN J Parenter Enteral Nutr. 2019;43(1):32-40.
  • Compher C, et al. J Acad Nutr Diet. 2024:S2212-2672(24)00052-2.
Category
CE CPEU Adult Inpatient Nutrition