Registered Psychiatric Nurses Of Canada Examination (RPNCE) Practice Test

Refeeding syndrome is a significant risk for a malnourished child, particularly one diagnosed with severe malnutrition. This syndrome can occur when feeding is restarted in individuals who have been severely malnourished. During periods of malnutrition, the body adapts by reducing the metabolism of carbohydrates and shifting to fat and protein stores for energy. When feeding resumes, particularly with carbohydrates, there is an increase in insulin secretion, which can lead to rapid shifts of electrolytes such as phosphate, potassium, and magnesium from the extracellular space into the cells. These shifts can result in serious complications, including cardiac issues, respiratory failure, and neurological problems. Therefore, careful management and gradual reintroduction of nutrition are critical in these cases to prevent refeeding syndrome and its associated risks. While bulimia, developmental delay, and stunted growth are important considerations in malnourished children, they do not specifically represent the immediate and acute risks posed by the process of refeeding after a period of malnutrition. Hence, refeeding syndrome stands out as the most critical concern in the context of managing a child recovering from severe malnutrition.