Saskatchewan Dietitians Association

Standards of Practice is an umbrella term that includes key documents which describe the responsibilities of each dietitian and define safe dietetic practice. These documents include: professional standards, ethical guidelines, entry-level competencies, provincial regulations, standards of care, and practice guidelines.

Professional Standards are based on the values, priorities, and practice of the professional. They describe the minimal levels of performance against which actual performance can be compared, are intended to guide daily practice and are applicable to all dietitians regardless of area of practice or setting. Although it is recognized that individual dietitians will strive to exceed the requirements of the standards, performance below these standards is considered unacceptable. Six Professional Standards have been identified for dietitians.

Standard 1: Provision of Service to a Client

The dietitian uses a client-centered approach to provide and facilitate an effective dietetic service.

Standard 2: Unique Body of Knowledge

The dietitian has an in-depth scientific knowledge of food and human nutrition, and integrates this
knowledge with that from other disciplines including health and social sciences, education,
communication and management.

Standard 3: Competent Application of Knowledge

The dietitian competently applies the unique body of knowledge of food and human nutrition, and
competently integrates this knowledge with that from other disciplines including health and social
sciences, education, communication and management.

Standard 4: Continued Competence

The dietitian is responsible for life-long learning to ensure competence in her/his area of practice.

Standard 5: Ethics

The dietitian practices in accordance with the ethical guidelines of the profession.

Standard 6: Professional Responsibility and Accountability

The dietitian is accountable to the public and is responsible for ensuring that her/his practice meets
legislative requirements and Standards of Practice for the profession.

Professional practice is based on the belief that the actions of the dietitian have an effect on client
outcomes. Each Professional Standards statement is accompanied by indicators that illustrate how the standard can be applied followed by a short discussion of outcomes. Individual copies of Professional Standards for Dietitians in Canada can be obtained from Dietitians of Canada for $20 non-member ($7.50 member) or may be provided by the provincial regulatory body.