Interpreting the result of the appetite test
The table below shows you how to determine whether the child passes or fails the test.
Appetite test table.
| Minimum amount that a malnourished child should take to pass the appetite test | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| RUTF | BP 100 | ||
| Body weight (kg) | Sachet | Body weight (kg) | Bars |
| < 4 | ⅛-¼ | < 5 | ¼-½ |
| 4 up to 10 | ¼-½ | 5 up to 10 | ½-¾ |
| 10 up to 15 | ½-¾ | 10 up to 15 | ¾-1 |
| > 15 | ¾-1 | > 15 | 1-1 ½ |
Passes the appetite test
A child that takes at least the amount of RUTF shown in the appetite test table passes the appetite test.
You should explain to the caregiver that the treatment option for the child is out-patient care.
Fails the appetite test
A child who does not take the amount of RUTF shown in the appetite test table fails the appetite test. You should explain to the caregiver that the choice of treatment for the child is in-patient care; and explain the reasons for recommending this.
You would then refer the child to the nearest therapeutic feeding unit / stabilisation centre for in-patient management in a health facility or hospital where severely malnourished children with complications or poor appetite are referred and managed.
Once the complications improve, these children will be referred back to you for continued out-patient follow-up in your health facility.