Malnutrition

Malnutrition

1. Malnutrition is when there is a deficit, excess, or an imbalance of nutrients that are essential for the body. Liver function impaired, protein synthesis is diminished, albumin leaks into interstitial space

   • Socioeconimic Factors
     • Some families have limit resources to quality food
       • Food assitance programs
         • Food panteries & charitable progrma
     • Nursing Dx: Imbalanced Nutrition: Nutrition: less than body requirements r/t decreased access
   • Physical Illness
     • Surgery, Illness, injury or hospitaliztion can put pts at risk for malnutrition
       • Malaborption syndrome: imaired absorption of nutrients from the GI tract
     • Nursing Dx: Feeding self-care deficit r/t decreased stremgth and edurance
   • Incomplete Diets
     • Vitamin Deficentices
     • Nursing Dx: Noncompliance r/t lack of motivation
   • Drug-Nutrient Interaction
     • Drugs can affect the use of nutrients in they body
       • e.g. fruit juice can enhance absorption of some drugs
     • Nursing Dx: Imbalanced Nutrition: less than body requirements r/t ingestion

2. Clinical Manifestations: dry & scaly skin, brittle nails, rash, hair loss, crusting & ulceration, changes in tounge, mental changes, irritability

3. Diagnostic Studies: Hx and physical exam, Serum albumin, electrolytes, liver enzymes, fat and muscle measurements (Anthropometric Measurments), ADLs, handgrip strength

4. Nursing Interventions: daily calorie count, high protein and caloric food, multiple small feedings, supplements, appetite stimulants, diet diary, dietitian consult, discharge instructions