Malnutrition should be diagnosed when 2 or more of the following 6 criteria are identified:
1. Insufficient Energy Intake
2. Weight Loss
3. Loss of Muscle Mass
4. Loss of Subcutaneous Fat
5. Localized or generalized fluid accumulation that may sometimes mask weight loss
6. Diminished functional status as measured by hand grip strength
These criteria must be evaluated in the clinical context of one of the following:
- Acute Illness or Injury
- Chronic Illness
- Social or Environmental Circumstances
Notice that ALBUMIN and PREALBUMIN are NOT criteria for diagnosis.
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