The Ethics of Competence, a Self-Assessment is Key

Abstract

Maintaining competence in practice is an ethical responsibility for registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) and nutrition and dietetics technicians, registered (NDTRs) to ensure the public receives consistent, high-quality nutrition care. Competence, in this context, may be defined in a variety of ways, including “the application and demonstration of appropriate knowledge, skills, and behaviors.”1 The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (Academy) defines competence as “a principle of professional practice, identifying the ability of the provider to administer safe and reliable services on a consistent basis.”2 RDNs and NDTRs who exhibit competence typically share the following characteristics and practices: seek out current knowledge; make decisions based on appropriate data and evidence-based research; and communicate effectively with patients, clients, and other professionals.