Kwashiorkor Nursing Care: Comprehensive Guide for Healthcare Professionals

Kwashiorkor Overview

Severe protein malnutrition (adequate calories, insufficient protein) in children 1–3 years. Features: edema, growth failure, dermatitis, hair changes, hepatomegaly, anemia, immune dysfunction.

Nursing Interventions

• Nutritional rehabilitation: Phased feeding – start with F-75 (stabilization), advance to F-100 (rehabilitation), then RUTF/locally appropriate high-protein foods.
• Fluid/electrolyte management: ORS for diarrhea; careful IV fluids (avoid overload—cardiac compromise risk).
• Infection control: Treat infections promptly; prophylactic antibiotics per protocol.
• Skin care: Gentle cleansing, barrier creams for dermatosis.
• Monitoring: Weight daily, vitals, intake/output, glucose, electrolytes.
• Psychosocial: Stimulation, bonding, caregiver education.

Severe Cases

Inpatient: NG feeding, IV antibiotics, micronutrient repletion (vitamin A, zinc, potassium, magnesium), careful refeeding syndrome prevention.

Outcomes

Early treatment → good recovery. Untreated → high mortality. Family education & community follow-up prevent relapse.