In nutrition documentation, what does PES stand for?

• A. Plan, Explain, Summary
• B. Patient, Evaluation, Summary
• C. Problem, Etiology, Signs and Symptoms
• D. Procedure, Effect, Status

Answer: (C)

PES stands for Problem, Etiology, Signs and Symptoms. In nutrition documentation, this structure is used to articulate a nutrition diagnosis within the Nutrition Care Process. The Problem names the nutrition issue, the Etiology explains the cause or contributing factors, and the Signs and Symptoms are the evidence observed that supports the diagnosis. This format helps ensure the diagnosis is precise and tied to both the cause and the observable data, making it clear what needs to be addressed. For example, a problem might be inadequate energy intake, with an etiology such as decreased appetite from therapy, and signs and symptoms like unintentional weight loss and low daily intake. This concise framing guides targeted interventions and monitoring.