RDA

Term from Dietetics industry explained for recruiters

RDA (Registered Dietitian Assistant) is a healthcare professional who works under the supervision of Registered Dietitians to help plan and implement nutrition programs. They assist in providing nutrition care, food service management, and dietary support in various settings like hospitals, nursing homes, and community health centers. This role is similar to a Dietetic Technician but specifically focuses on working alongside Registered Dietitians. Think of them as the practical support staff who help put nutrition plans into action.

Examples in Resumes

Provided dietary support as an RDA in a 200-bed hospital setting

Assisted RDA duties in meal planning and nutritional assessments

Worked as an RDA implementing therapeutic diet plans under RD supervision

Typical job title: "Registered Dietitian Assistants"

Also try searching for:

Dietary Assistant Nutrition Assistant Diet Aide Clinical Nutrition Assistant Food Service Assistant Dietary Support Staff

Where to Find Registered Dietitian Assistants

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you handle complex dietary restrictions while planning meals for a large healthcare facility?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of managing multiple dietary requirements, understanding of kitchen operations, and ability to coordinate with different departments while maintaining quality and safety standards.

Q: Describe your experience in training new staff on dietary procedures.

Expected Answer: Should show leadership abilities, knowledge of training methods, and understanding of dietary department protocols and safety requirements.

Mid Level Questions

Q: How do you ensure accurate portion control and dietary compliance?

Expected Answer: Should explain methods for measuring portions, understanding dietary restrictions, and maintaining food safety while serving correct meals to patients.

Q: What process do you follow when receiving new dietary orders from a Registered Dietitian?

Expected Answer: Should describe communication procedures, documentation methods, and implementation steps for new dietary instructions.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic food safety guidelines you follow in a healthcare setting?

Expected Answer: Should know basic food safety temperatures, handling procedures, and sanitation requirements for healthcare facilities.

Q: How do you handle special dietary requests from patients?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate understanding of dietary restrictions, communication protocols, and proper procedures for addressing patient needs.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-1 years)

  • Basic food safety knowledge
  • Understanding of dietary restrictions
  • Menu distribution
  • Basic patient interaction

Mid (1-3 years)

  • Dietary compliance monitoring
  • Food service coordination
  • Patient diet education support
  • Documentation management

Senior (3+ years)

  • Staff training and supervision
  • Quality assurance monitoring
  • Complex dietary planning assistance
  • Department coordination

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Lack of food safety certification
  • Poor understanding of dietary restrictions
  • No experience in healthcare settings
  • Weak communication skills
  • Limited knowledge of medical terminology