RD exam topics

At 45% this is the largest domain on the current RD exam. It follows the Nutrition Care Process end to end: screening and assessment including anthropometrics, biochemical data, clinical findings, dietary history and comparative standards; nutrition diagnosis using PES statements; planning and intervention including medical nutrition therapy across disease states and the lifespan; and monitoring and evaluation against measurable outcomes.

Principles of Dietetics is 21% of the current RD exam. It covers food, nutrition and supporting sciences — macronutrient and micronutrient metabolism, biochemistry, physiology, food composition and microbiology; education, communication and technology, including counselling theory, health literacy and documentation systems; and research applications such as study design, statistics and evaluating the literature.

Management is 21% of the current RD exam. It covers the functions of management — planning, organising, leading and controlling; human resource management including hiring, training, scheduling, performance management and labour relations; financial management such as budgets, cost control, break-even analysis and productivity measures; marketing and public relations; and quality management and regulatory compliance including accreditation standards and required documentation.

Foodservice Systems is 13% of the current RD exam. It covers menu development including cycle menus, standardised recipes and modified diets; procurement, production, distribution and service including purchasing methods, inventory control, forecasting and production scheduling; sanitation and safety including HACCP, temperature control and foodborne-illness prevention; and equipment and facility planning including workflow and layout.