Evaluation of dietetic students' and interns' application of a lifestyle-oriented nutrition-counseling model.

Objective: To assess dietetic students' and interns' skills to effectively apply a lifestyle-oriented nutrition-counseling model.

Methods: Between 1999 and 2004, 121 dietetics students and interns (82% retained) were trained to provide nutrition counseling and certified using a standardized patient evaluation format. Supervising registered dietitians and students evaluated transcripts of their counseling sessions using a modified version of the Dietitian's Interviewing Rating Scale (DIRS).