Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM)

Overview

• Presented by Cathy with Level Up RN
• Focus on two main types: Marasmus and Kwashiorkor
• Includes a quiz at the end
• Suggested to use Level Up RN Nutrition Flashcards for studying

What is PEM?

• Caused by lack of calories or protein
• Can lead to organ damage and death
• Common in poverty-stricken areas

Marasmus

• Caused by a deficiency in overall calories (including protein, carbs, fats)
• Signs and Symptoms:
  • Wasted appearance
  • Lack of subcutaneous fat
  • Hypotension
  • Bradycardia
  • Hypothermia
  • Delayed growth

Kwashiorkor

• Caused by a deficiency in protein
• Key Sign: Abdominal distention
  • Due to lack of albumin causing fluid to leave the bloodstream
• Other Signs and Symptoms:
  • Peripheral edema
  • Round face
  • Muscle atrophy
  • Poor growth
  • Hepatomegaly (enlarged liver)

Treatment of Malnutrition

• Treat dehydration
• Address electrolyte imbalances
• Prevent/treat hypothermia
• Correct micronutrient deficiencies
• Slowly introduce feeding

Quiz Questions

1. Marasmus is caused by a deficiency in calories. True
2. Kwashiorkor is caused by a deficiency in protein
3. Which form of malnutrition is characterized by a distended abdomen? Kwashiorkor

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