CSSD Practice Exam 2025 – Complete Study Resource

A PES (Problem, Etiology, Signs/Symptoms) statement is a crucial part of the nutrition diagnosis process, particularly in the context of the practice of dietetics and nutrition. The essential component of the PES statement is the identification of specific problem areas, which in the context of nutrition, is closely tied to food intake. This includes assessing the quantity and quality of the food consumed, understanding the client's nutritional needs, and recognizing any deficiencies or excesses that may exist.

While other factors like medical history, client's food preferences, and behavioral patterns are important for a holistic understanding of a client's situation, they serve primarily as supporting information rather than the core of the PES statement itself. Food intake directly addresses the nutritional issues that the client may face, allowing the nutrition professional to formulate an effective and targeted approach for intervention. Thus, focusing on food intake leads to a clearer identification of the problem needing addressed in the PES statement.