Certified Dietary Manager (CDM) Practice Exam

Which professional is responsible for the management of food operations?

1. Registered Dietitian

2. Licensed Practical Nurse

3. Certified Dietary Manager

4. Dietetic Technician

The correct answer is: Certified Dietary Manager

The Certified Dietary Manager is the professional specifically trained and responsible for the management of food operations within a healthcare or institutional setting. This role encompasses overseeing food service staff, ensuring compliance with safety and sanitation regulations, managing menus, and optimizing nutrition quality for patient care and client satisfaction. The Certified Dietary Manager is often the key figure in coordinating between dietary needs and the practicalities of running food service operations, making sure that the business aspects of food service align with dietary guidelines and patient requirements. While a Registered Dietitian focuses on providing nutrition care and developing dietary plans, and a Dietetic Technician supports nutrition and dietetics by assisting in food service management and nutrition education, neither holds the same managerial responsibilities for food operations. Similarly, a Licensed Practical Nurse's primary focus is on patient care rather than food service management. This delineation of roles highlights how the Certified Dietary Manager is uniquely qualified to oversee and manage the complexities of food operations.