Applying the recommended indicators for the diagnosis of preterm and neonatal malnutrition: Answers to frequently asked questions

In 2018, a committee of expert preterm/neonatal registered dietitian nutritionists published recommended indicators for the diagnosis of malnutrition in preterm infants and neonates. This was in response to a need for indicators appropriate to the preterm/neonatal population, given the emphasis on diagnosing malnutrition in the pediatric and adult population. Since the publication, the authors have received numerous questions regarding the application and use of the indicators. This paper answers questions regarding the three categories of indicators and billing and reimbursement. The goal is to develop uniformity in the application of the malnutrition indicators for quality improvement and research efforts.