Conceptualizing Advanced Level Dietetics Practice: Competency Development in an Advanced Practice Doctorate Residency

An abstract of a study by Ziegler et al describing the essential clinical competencies to be obtained during an advanced level clinical dietetics practice residency is presented. The didactic and research components of the Doctorate in Clinical Nutrition program prepare students with proficiency in critical thinking, aptitude in scientific inquiry and application of outcome based research. Competencies and activities within each practice domain were further elucidated to encompass specific skill sets needed to reach proficiency. Students develop individualized advanced level competencies in a focused area of clinical nutrition to tailor the residency to meet their specific focus area of practice for advanced practice skills.