In subjective global assessment, what is primarily being evaluated?

In subjective global assessment (SGA), the primary focus is on evaluating the patient's nutrition history. This assessment involves a detailed conversation with the patient to gather information about their dietary intake, weight changes, gastrointestinal symptoms, and functional capacity. By integrating this information, healthcare professionals can determine the nutritional status of the patient more holistically, taking into account not just the physical appearance or lab values, but how these elements interact with the patient's overall health and nutrition history.

While physical appearance and lab values may provide supporting information, they are secondary to the comprehensive understanding gained from the patient's nutritional history. This method is particularly beneficial because it helps identify malnutrition risk and helps formulate appropriate nutrition care plans based on individual patient needs.