Which statement best describes the SGA assessment method?

Which statement best describes the SGA assessment method?

• A. Objective measurements only
• B. Laboratory biomarkers
• C. Imaging studies
• D. Subjective Global Assessment

Answer: (D)

SGA is a clinical judgment tool that relies on synthesis of history and physical examination rather than isolated objective data. It uses how a patient reports changes in weight, appetite, dietary intake, GI symptoms, and functional capacity, along with physical signs such as loss of subcutaneous fat, muscle wasting, and edema to form a global impression of nutritional status. This structured, patient-centered assessment categorizes malnutrition based on the clinician’s overall impression, not just lab values or imaging findings. While labs, imaging, or other objective measurements can support the assessment, they do not define the SGA method itself.

SGA is a clinical judgment tool that relies on synthesis of history and physical examination rather than isolated objective data. It uses how a patient reports changes in weight, appetite, dietary intake, GI symptoms, and functional capacity, along with physical signs such as loss of subcutaneous fat, muscle wasting, and edema to form a global impression of nutritional status. This structured, patient-centered assessment categorizes malnutrition based on the clinician’s overall impression, not just lab values or imaging findings. While labs, imaging, or other objective measurements can support the assessment, they do not define the SGA method itself.