In nutrition diagnosis, what does PES stand for and how is it structured?

• A. Etiology, Problem, Signs/Symptoms
• B. Problem, Signs/Symptoms, Etiology
• C. Problem, Etiology, Signs/Symptoms
• D. Signs/Symptoms, Etiology, Problem

Answer: (C)

PES stands for Problem, Etiology, Signs/Symptoms. In a nutrition diagnosis, you name the problem first, then identify the cause or contributing factor that links to the problem, and finally list the signs and symptoms—the data from assessment that support and confirm the diagnosis. The order—Problem, Etiology, Signs/Symptoms—helps you clearly see what to address and why, and it guides both intervention planning and outcome measurement. For example, a statement might describe the problem as an inadequate energy intake, the etiology as limited access to meals due to a work schedule, and the signs/symptoms as dietary intake below estimated energy needs and unintended weight loss.