Pediatric Gastrointestinal and Liver Disease: Chapter 92 - Nutrition and Feeding for Children With Developmental Disabilities

Patients with neurologic disorders such as cerebral palsy have unique and complex issues with malnutrition, including inadequate nutrition, as well as obesity. In this chapter, we will review steps to develop and implement a nutritional plan for these unique patients. Steps to develop a plan include obtaining a nutritional assessment including anthropometrics, determining nutritional needs, evaluating swallow function, determining the need for supplemental tube feedings, and selecting appropriate formulas. Providing appropriate nutrition to these children results in improved quality of life for both the patients and their families.