A spiral-bound guide describing a simple step-by-step procedure for carrying out a rapid survey of nutritional status in emergency situations in Eastern Mediterranean countries, where natural and man-made disasters have been common. Emphasis is placed on the steps required to make quick but reliable estimates as a basis for subsequent action. Throughout, checklists, model forms, reference charts, and tables are used to facilitate rapid data collection in emergency situations. Decisions concerning the recommended minimum sample size, survey participants, and the level of analysis needed were made with the goal of striking a balance between the methodologically appropriate and the logistically feasible. The recommended method is based on simple anthropometric data and limited to children of preschool age. The result is a series of steps, appropriate to field conditions that can be followed by individuals with little statistical or epidemiological training and can produce the essential data needed for immediate decisions and interventions. The guide has eight chapters, moving stepwise from selection of the survey subjects, and sample through collection of data on weight-for-height to the recording analysis and interpretation of results. Further practical guidance in provided in a series of eight annexes, which include examples of systematic and cluster sampling, the CDC/WHO normalized reference table of weight-for-height, mean Z-scores, and corresponding prevalences below -2 Z scores, a list of equipment, and advice on using Epi-Info software for data analysis.