Results and impact
Subsection 0 (as of September 2023): Results of the criteria catalog
The theoretically derived criteria catalog forms the basis for competence-oriented nutrition education in pediatric healthcare and comprises three main categories:
- Nutrition knowledge: basics of healthy eating, food science (value, hygiene, preparation), nutrition science (macro/micronutrients, infant nutrition), psychology of eating behavior.
- Consulting and communication skills: conversation techniques, risk communication, motivational interaction with parents/patients.
- Framework conditions: institutional, legal, and organizational requirements for nutrition counseling.
Each category contains meta-goals (“Be able to...”) and specific learning objectives that have been assigned to the competency levels of understanding and application.
Subsection 1 (as of September 2023): Results of the curriculum analysis
A comprehensive curriculum research and analysis of existing training, further education, and continuing education programs for relevant professional groups (pediatricians, midwives, lactation consultants, nursing staff, medical assistants) was conducted. The following deficits were identified:
- Large differences in the scope, structure, and depth of the teaching content.
- Nutrition is often only dealt with marginally or unsystematically.
- Communication and counseling are covered much less frequently than knowledge content.
- No curriculum meets all criteria.
Gaps in expertise were particularly evident in the areas of nutritional psychology, counseling/communication, and primary prevention strategies.
Subsection 2 (as of April 2025): Results of empirical studies
The theoretical foundations were also empirically tested. The focus was a mixed-methods survey on the application of nutrition-related advice in everyday paediatric practice.
Qualitative survey (n = 60):
Nutrition-related topics are of great importance in the everyday work of various healthcare professions, but are perceived as insufficiently taught in curricula. There is a great desire for further training on counseling skills, conversation skills, breastfeeding, complementary foods and diets.
Document analysis (n = 10):
The analysis of 10 counseling materials showed only satisfactory to sufficient quality values. There is a need for optimization, particularly with regard to source references, neutral language of instruction and prevention focus.
Quantitative online survey (n = 284):
The results show great commitment with clear gaps in knowledge, particularly in practical implementation and communicative advice. Lack of time, lack of materials and insufficient cooperation make nutritional advice difficult.
Subsection 3 (as of April 2025): Results of the target/actual comparison
Initial areas for action have been identified:
- Stronger curricular anchoring of nutrition.
- Structured and flexible training courses on communication/counseling.
- Quality assurance and updating of counseling materials.
- Strengthening interprofessional cooperation.
Outlook (subsection 4)
The project will conclude with the derivation of practical measures. A feedback phase with experts from professional societies, professional associations, and practical institutions has begun, and patient perspectives will also be included.
Planned project completion: June 2026.
