What is one of the first assessments that a nurse should include when performing an initial nutritional screening on a new patient?

Choice A reason: A complete physical exam is comprehensive but not specific to initial nutritional screening. Height and weight history provide BMI, a quick nutritional indicator, so this is not the first assessment. Choice B reason: Height and weight history are critical for initial nutritional screening, enabling BMI calculation to assess undernutrition or obesity. This is a standard, quick method, making it the correct first step. Choice C reason: Calorie counting is detailed and time-consuming, unsuitable for initial screening. Height and weight offer a rapid baseline for nutritional status, so this is incorrect for the first step. Choice D reason: Leg circumference may assess muscle mass but is not standard for initial nutritional screening. Height and weight are primary for BMI, so this is incorrect for the initial assessment.