Learning Objectives

Nutritional Status Assessment

• Recognize the importance of assessing the nutritional status of the pediatric population affected by a disaster.
• Identify the vulnerable population groups in these situations.
• Know and use the different methods for anthropometric assessment of the pediatric population.

Clinical Features of Malnutrition

• Identify through physical examination the main clinical findings of protein-energy malnutrition and those indicating severe malnutrition.
• Recognize the particular features and the clinical and pathophysiologic differences between marasmus and kwashiorkor.
• Describe the pathophysiology of the refeeding syndrome.

Micronutrient Deficiencies

• List specific micronutrient deficiencies, their risk factors, and clinical signs.
• Describe the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and clinical presentation of vitamin A, iron, and zinc deficiencies.
• Describe the general management for micronutrient deficiency prevention and treatment in acute emergency settings.

IMCI Strategy for Nutritional Status Assessment

• Assess and classify the nutritional status of children according to the Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) guidelines and determine the appropriate management strategy.
• Identify anemia using IMCI tools and recommend the appropriate management strategy.

Feeding Programs in Disaster Situations

• Recognize the importance of breastfeeding as well as its nutritional and logistic benefits in an emergency context.
• Describe the different feeding program options in disaster situations.
• Identify the phases of a therapeutic feeding program.

Nutritional Status of Infants 0 to 2 Months of Age

• Assess nutritional status and rule out feeding problems.
• Counsel the mother on effective breastfeeding.