Classify the methods of assessment of nutritional status. Explain the objectives and importance of assessment.

1. 1 · Open in two lines. Assessment of nutritional status is the interpretation of body measurements, laboratory tests, clinical signs and diet to judge the nutritional health of a person or a community.
2. 2 · Objectives.
   • Extent, severity and distribution of malnutrition.
   • High-risk groups and causes.
   • Plan, monitor and evaluate programmes; baseline data.
3. 3 · Importance. Targets scarce resources, shows trends (NFHS, NNMB), guides counselling and referral.
4. 4 · Draw the classification chart. [Chart: Assessment → Direct (anthropometry, biochemical, clinical, dietary, biophysical, functional) and Indirect (vital statistics, ecological factors, food balance sheet)]
5. 5 · Direct methods. One line and one example each: weight and height; Hb; Bitot's spots; 24-hour recall; dark adaptation; grip strength.
6. 6 · Indirect methods. Infant and 1-4 year mortality; food production and sanitation; food available per head.
7. 7 · In the community. A baseline survey before a programme and a repeat survey a year later show whether it worked.
8. 8 · Close in one line. No single method is enough; combining them gives the true picture.

Scoring tip: The classification chart is the backbone of this answer: draw it first, then explain each box in one or two lines.