Perceived job importance and job performance satisfaction of selected clinical nutrition management responsibilities

Nutrition Research Newsletter, August, 2005

In general, clinical nutrition managers rated performance satisfaction ratings for most regulatory-related job responsibilities highly and were satisfied with responsibilities that were considered to be important. However, clinical nutrition managers were not as satisfied with their performance of some responsibilities, such as ensuring competitive salary levels, securing reimbursement, and outcome/cost-benefit issues. This may be due to a lack of knowledge or experience, time constraints, and/or insufficient support from the organization.

By understanding what responsibilities clinical nutrition managers perceive as important, practitioners may compare their perception of importance with results of this study, to explore and identify the responsibilities that may need more time, commitment and improvement. Performing and developing outcome studies and securing reimbursement for clinical services were not perceived to be as important, as were other responsibilities.

As the health care environment changes, so will the responsibilities of clinical nutrition managers. This study provided a guideline for areas of possible improvement in clinical nutrition management in this ever-changing environment. In addition, data suggested that clinical nutrition managers generally perceived more satisfaction with performance of responsibilities that they believe are most important. Therefore, to increase awareness of important clinical nutrition management responsibilities, clinical nutrition managers need to continue networking and supporting one another to identify important issues, challenges, and possible resolutions.

Pratt P. E., Kwon J., Rew M. L. Perceived Job Importance and Job Performance Satisfaction of Selected Clinical Nutrition Management Responsibilities. JADA; 105(7): 1128-1132 (July 2005). [Correspondence: Junehee Kwon, PhD, RD, Assistant Professor, Department of Nutrition and Food Sciences, Texas Woman's University, PO Box 425888, Denton, TX 76204-5888]