Tools used in screening and evaluation of nutritional status in pediatric patients

Abstract

Malnutrition, which is frequently encountered in the pediatric patient group is defined as the cumulative energy, protein and micronutrient deficiencies caused by the imbalance between nutritional requirement and intake. Compared to their well-nourished peers, patients who develop malnutrition during childhood, when growth and development are rapid, have a longer hospital stay and an increased risk of infection, illness, and death. This situation also causes an increase in the financial burden on the health system. The processes of screening and evaluating nutritional status are of critical importance both in the prevention of malnutrition development and in the treatment process of malnutrition. This review aims to provide up-to-date knowledge to the reader about; the content, general characteristics, and validity & reliability of the pediatric nutritional screening and evaluation tools commonly used in Turkey.