Final answer:
The first element to document in the nutrition diagnosis is the Problem, part of the PES (Problem, Etiology, Signs and Symptoms) statement format, followed by etiology and then signs and symptoms.
Step-by-step explanation:
When documenting the nutrition diagnosis, the first item that should be given is the Problem. The nutrition diagnosis is typically structured using the PES (Problem, Etiology, Signs and Symptoms) statement format. It's important to identify and state the specific nutrition problem that the patient, client, or group is facing as this forms the basis of the diagnosis and the subsequent plan of care. Once the problem is established, the nutrition professional will then document the etiology or cause of the problem followed by the signs and symptoms which are evidence that the problem exists.