Online nutritional care has become a relevant trend in clinical practice, especially after the regulation of telenutrition by the Federal Council of Nutritionists (CFN). With this change, nutritionists can expand their services to serve patients in any location, without the physical limitations imposed by a traditional office. However, to provide excellent service, even if at a distance, it is crucial that professionals prepare themselves and adopt specific practices. Let's explore a step by step to empower nutritionists to provide effective online care, without fear.

1. Understanding the Online Nutrition Care Regulation

Before entering the practical step by step, it is essential to understand the guidelines that regulate telenutrition. CFN Resolution No. 666 of 2020 details the conditions and rules for remote care by nutritionists, ensuring safety for both the professional and the patient. The regulations highlight that service must be conducted with the same technical and ethical rigor as face-to-face service. Check out the full resolution and all its guidelines at this link.

2. Structure the Environment for Online Service

One of the first steps to quality online nutritional care is to structure a professional environment. This means ensuring that the place chosen for the appointments is quiet, well lit and free of noises that could hinder communication with the patient. Make sure that the background of your screen is neutral and appropriate, conveying seriousness and professionalism.

In addition, choose reliable and secure video platforms to ensure the privacy of the information exchanged during the consultation. Make sure that the tools comply with General Data Protection Law (LGPD), which protects the processing of personal data of clients and patients in Brazil.

3. Prepare for Service: Collect Information in Advance

Collecting patient information prior to the appointment is essential for the fluidity of care. Submit nutritional history forms online so that the patient can complete them in advance, covering clinical data, health history, and objectives. This will allow you to plan the appointment in a personalized way, directing the conversation to the most relevant points.

Remember to ask the patient to share laboratory tests or other medical documents, ensuring a complete view of their health status. This prior approach makes it easier to build a more assertive and grounded eating plan.

4. Adopt Clear and Efficient Communication

Communication during online nutritional care needs to be clear and objective, considering that the nuances of body language are less noticeable on the screen. Explain each stage of the consultation, clarify doubts patiently, and use practical examples that facilitate the patient's understanding.

Use visual aids whenever possible, such as presentations, infographics, and diagrams that help explain concepts or nutritional guidelines. Tools like Zoom and Google Meet allow screen sharing, which can make communication more interactive and effective.

5. Personalize the Meal Plan and Recommendations

Personalization is the key to successful online nutrition care. Use the information collected previously and adapt the dietary plan to the patient's specific needs. Consider factors such as lifestyle, dietary preferences, intolerances, and allergies. In the online environment, the submission of a personalized plan can be accompanied by an explanatory video or an e-book to facilitate understanding and increase adherence.

Additionally, consider using dietary monitoring apps to track patient progress. These apps allow constant communication and the adjustment of guidelines in real time, optimizing service.

6. Ensure Follow-up and Adherence to Treatment

Online nutrition care doesn't end with the consultation itself. Follow-up is essential to ensure patient compliance with the guidelines and the proposed dietary plan. Set times for periodic feedback, revisions, and adjustments to the plan, if necessary.

Send follow-up messages via email or messaging apps to check progress and answer questions. The use of automated reminders can also help the patient stay engaged and follow the nutrition plan correctly.

7. Use Technological Tools to Your Advantage

There are several technological tools that can optimize online nutritional care. Online scheduling platforms make it easier to manage your schedule, avoiding scheduling conflicts and optimizing time. Online payment applications, such as PagSeguro or PayPal, allow a safe and practical financial transaction for both parties.

Teleconferencing tools with recording features can also be useful, allowing the patient to revisit the guidelines at any time. However, be sure to obtain the patient's consent before recording any consultation.

8. Offer Different Service Modalities

To further expand your online nutritional service, offer different consultation modalities, such as individual sessions, support groups, workshops, and classes on specific topics. This increases the value perceived by the patient and provides a more complete experience.

The diversity of care options can be a competitive differential in the market, attracting new patients and retaining current ones. Also consider partnerships with other areas of health, such as psychologists and physical educators, to provide multidisciplinary care.

9. Get Constantly Updated on Telenutrition

The field of telenutrition is constantly evolving, and it is important for professionals to keep up to date. Participating in courses, webinars, and conferences aimed at online nutritional care is an excellent way to keep up to date and learn new strategies. On the Vitafor Science Portal, for example, you can find exclusive content to improve your clinical practice.

In addition, following scientific publications and guidelines from class entities, such as the CFN, ensures that your service always complies with best practices.