Summary

In this study session you learned that:

• Anthropometric indices such as mid-upper arm circumference, weight and height are used to determine the nutritional status of women and children.
• The severity of the malnutrition is decided against a set of criteria, including weight for height and body mass index (BMI).
• The presence of oedema always signifies severe acute malnutrition.
• The target group for managing moderate acute malnutrition is children under five, pregnant women and lactating mothers.
• When managing someone who has moderate acute malnutrition, you should identify any problems in the home that led to the malnutrition and then counsel the use of high-energy foods to address the problem.
• It is important to record accurate information in the registration book, which is then shared with different stakeholders.