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Summary
In this Unit, you have studied visible and invisible changes that happen in children with SAM. You have also learnt the physiological and metabolic changes that occur to conserve energy when there is inadequate intake of food, a process known as reductive adaptation, and its consequences for treatment.
Think about your answer to each question below before you check the answer.
Q1. What visible and invisible changes happen to children with SAM?
Visible changes include loss of muscle and fat (wasting), oedema (swelling), changes in mood (miserable, apathetic) and appetite loss. The invisible changes are physiologic and metabolic changes, which affect the function of cells, tissues and organs of the body.
Q2. Describe reductive adaptation.
Reductive adaptation refers to the physiological and metabolic changes that take place in an orderly and progressive manner to conserve energy when a child's intake of nutrients and energy is insufficient.
Q3. Summarise the consequences of adaptation.
The consequences of reductive adaptation include stopping of growth, reduction of physical activity, reduced activity inside cells, reduced work of organs such as the liver, kidney and heart, muscle and tissue breakdown and decreased immune response.
Q4. In what ways do children with SAM need different care?
Because of the physiological and metabolic changes, they must be fed and rehydrated differently. They should be given electrolytes to correct imbalances and micronutrients to correct deficiencies. They must not be given iron initially. They should be kept warm to prevent hypothermia.
If you are ready to test your understanding of the topic, go to the Unit menu and click the Unit assessment.
