Udaipur, August 26: The Udaipur District Hospital has made significant strides in combating severe acute malnutrition (SAM) among children. Under the Integrated SAM Management system, effective treatment is being provided, which goes beyond just nutritional support. The program includes medical treatment for health complications, special nutrition, rehabilitation, and regular follow-ups after discharge. As of July, a total of 203 children were treated, with an additional 26 children admitted this month, bringing the total to 229 severely malnourished children.
Upon arrival at the hospital, the condition of severely malnourished children is assessed, and they are admitted to either the pediatric ward or the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) based on their needs. Here, complications such as fever, cough, diarrhea, dehydration, and respiratory issues are treated, alongside providing a special diet tailored to their nutritional needs.
Dr. Brijendra Chhari, a pediatric specialist at the Udaipur District Hospital, noted that most children reach the Nutritional Rehabilitation Centre (NRC) through outpatient services, while some are referred from the field. To determine the severity of malnutrition, the children’s weight, height, and Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) are measured according to established protocols.
Parents are informed about the government’s treatment and nutritional programs to encourage them to admit their children. Children are kept under close observation at the NRC for about 14 days, receiving nutritious meals, treatment based on their illnesses, and rehabilitation support. The government also provides families with a daily compensation of ₹120 for food.
Once the initial health complications are managed, children are shifted to the NRC, where they receive special care for approximately 14 days, with nutritious meals provided eight times a day. The NRC is equipped with 20 beds and ample space for food preparation, toilets, and other essential facilities.
Dr. Chhari emphasized the importance of educating mothers and caregivers about nutrition and hygiene. They are taught how to feed the children properly, the importance of covering food, washing hands with soap before meals, and maintaining cleanliness. Parents receive daily guidance on these matters.
Even after discharge from the NRC, children continue to be monitored. They are called back to the hospital every 15 days for follow-ups over a two-month period, during which their health and nutritional status are assessed. Necessary medications are provided, along with food packets prepared at the NRC. The immunization status of the children is also checked, and efforts are made to ensure any missed vaccinations are completed. Dr. Chhari noted that most children are returning home healthy after treatment.
He also mentioned that staffing shortages are managed at the departmental level, with two cooks, a caretaker, and cleaning staff available at the NRC. Despite these challenges, the team works in coordination to ensure that there is no negligence in the treatment of the children. The administration plays an active role in monitoring this program, with regular oversight from the collector’s office. Through the collaboration of the health department, administration, and families, severely malnourished children are receiving integrated treatment, nutrition, and follow-up care, resulting in many returning home healthy.
Dr. Pramod Mishra, in charge of the pediatrics department at Udaipur District Hospital, reported that according to NRC data from the past four months, 203 children were admitted by July, with 26 new admissions this month, totaling 229 children treated.
He explained that the treatment process under the Integrated SAM Management connects various levels of care. Initially, children are admitted to the pediatric ward or PICU, and once their initial complications are managed, they are shifted to the NRC. Even during their stay in the ward or PICU, special diets are provided from the NRC based on the children’s nutritional needs. Dr. Mishra further elaborated that special management of nutrition is carried out following the established protocols for SAM management.
My name is Ganpat Singh Choughan. I am an experienced content writer with 8 years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Udaipur Kiran & Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.