The increased interest in the science of nutrition has come about in the past generation. Scientists have delved into the problem of what man needs in the way of nourishment and how food can contribute to man's needs. The more scientists discover, the more impressed nursing educators are with the importance of nutrition in maintaining health and in the prevention of diseases.

This descriptive study sought to determine the current status of nutrition education in the adult health area in baccalaureate schools of nursing. Data were gathered through questionnaires administered to fifty-two adult health educators in seven collegiate schools of nursing in Western New York and Genesee Valley regions of New York State.

The central question investigated was: What is the current status of the study of nutrition in the adult health area in the curriculum in baccalaureate schools of nursing? The related questions dealt with the emphasis of nutrition in the curriculum in the adult health area.

The following conclusions were drawn from the data gathered. (1) Nursing educators in the adult health area view nutrition as an important component in the total curriculum. (2) Baccalaureate schools of nursing often included specific courses in nutrition in the nursing curriculum. (3) Integration of nutrition throughout the adult health portion of the curriculum frequently occurred. (4) Nutrition as a component of patient health teaching was frequently included. (5) Student involvement in nutrition education and follow-up observations in the clinical area were minimal. (6) Minimal emphasis on nutrition was placed in pre-conferences and post-conferences. (7) A large percentage of adult health faculty have no specific bibliography for students in the nutrition area.

The following recommendations are offered. (1) That dialogue take place between the two groups of professionals responsible for nursing education--the faculty of the basic science departments and the school of nursing faculty to outline objectives and discuss the curriculum in the nutrition area. (2) That time be allotted for the student to become involved in the education process of their patients and family. (3) That an effective program in nutrition education be incorporated in the curriculum of all baccalaureate schools of nursing. . . . (Author's abstract exceeds stipulated maximum length. Discontinued here with permission of author.) UMI.