FBT RDN Start up Thoughts Tip #1

Family-based treatment (FBT) originated without Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDNs).  Many RDNs are now finding themselves either being asked to contribute to a treatment team who uses FBT or are interested in launching the FBT principles in their work with adolescents who have eating disorders.  It makes sense to me to follow the only evidence-based treatment for adolescence with eating disorders. My hope is to share my wisdom gleaned over the nearly 10 years working with a collaborative team in an outpatient setting. RDNs are well positioned to coach parents in the vital task of in-home re-feeding.
Here is my top 10 things to know, use and expect... One at a time.

ONE:  Identify potential team members

• Do you have any FBT trained providers and experts locally?

Be prepared to sell yourself and educate the team on what you can do as an RDN. This may take face to face meetings and networking. 

• Pediatricians who already manage your clients.
  

- Agree on what to say and how to weigh?
- Discuss who will discuss and make exercise recommendations.
- Review protocols for checking clients who are at medical risk.
- Agree on treatment weight goals. 

• Therapists who are not FBT trained but are open to learn
  

- Do they communicate with you?
- Do you have their cells phones, emails and fax numbers?

• Identify your recommendations for higher level of care.
  

- Hospitals - do they have a pediatric protocol in place for EDs?
- Know your residential or IOP options
- Suggest discharge meal planning happen directly with the parents not child or adolescent.