Vidisha, August 26: The Vidisha District Hospital is effectively treating children suffering from Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) through an Integrated SAM Management system. This approach not only provides nutrition but also addresses health complications, offers specialized diets, rehabilitation, and regular follow-ups after discharge. In the last four months, up to July, 203 children were treated, with 26 new admissions this month, totaling 229 severely malnourished children.
Upon arrival at the district hospital, the condition of severely malnourished children is assessed. Based on their needs, they are admitted to either the Pediatric Ward or the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Here, complications such as fever, cough, diarrhea, dehydration, and respiratory issues are treated, alongside providing special diets tailored to their nutritional status.
Dr. Brijendra Chhari, a pediatrician at Vidisha District Hospital, noted that most children reach the Nutritional Rehabilitation Center (NRC) through outpatient services, while some are referred from the field. To determine the severity of malnutrition, the child’s weight, height, and Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) are measured. These metrics help classify whether a child falls into the SAM category.
Parents are informed about government treatment and nutritional programs to encourage them to admit their children. Children stay at the NRC for approximately 14 days under close supervision, receiving nutritious meals, medical treatment, and rehabilitation support. The government also provides families with a daily compensation of 120 rupees for expenses.
Once a child’s initial health complications are managed, they are transferred to the NRC. Here, they receive specialized care for about 14 days, with nutritious meals provided eight times a day. The NRC has a capacity of 20 beds and is equipped with adequate facilities for food preparation, toilets, and other necessities.
Dr. Chhari emphasized the importance of educating mothers and caregivers about nutrition and hygiene. They are instructed on proper feeding techniques, the importance of covering food, washing hands with soap before meals, and maintaining cleanliness. Parents receive daily guidance on these critical points.
Even after discharge from the NRC, children’s health is monitored. They are called back to the hospital every 15 days for follow-ups over two months. During these visits, their health and nutritional status are assessed, and necessary medications are provided. Additionally, the immunization status of the children is checked, ensuring that any missed vaccinations are administered. Dr. Chhari reported that most children return home healthy after treatment.
He also mentioned that staffing shortages are managed at the departmental level. The NRC has two cooks, a caretaker, and cleaning staff. Despite the challenges, the team works in coordination to ensure no negligence in the treatment of children. The administration plays an active role in monitoring this program, with regular oversight from the collector’s office. Through collaboration between the health department, administration, and families, severely malnourished children are receiving comprehensive treatment, nutrition, and follow-up care, resulting in many returning home healthy.
Dr. Pramod Mishra, in charge of the pediatric department at Vidisha District Hospital, shared that according to NRC data from the past four months, 203 children were admitted by July, with 26 new admissions this month, bringing the total to 229 treated children.
He explained that the Integrated SAM Management at the district hospital connects treatment at various levels. Initially, children are admitted to the Pediatric Ward or PICU, and after stabilizing their health complications, they are shifted to the NRC. However, even during their stay in the ward or PICU, special diets are provided from the NRC according to their nutritional needs. Dr. Mishra further noted that the nutritional management of children is carried out according to established SAM management protocols.
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