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module 4: fluid and bowel problems
   

pretest

introduction

fluid status and bowel function

assessing fluid and bowel status

influence of special health care needs

intervention strategies

posttest

for more information
  

Down syndrome (trisomy 21)

Description
Down syndrome is caused by an “extra” 21st chromosome. Children with Down syndrome often have mental retardation, cardiac defects, and hypotonia (decreased muscle tone). Duodenal atresia (blockage of the intestine) may be present. Oral problems can include oral hypotonia, small oral cavity causing tongue protrusion, and delayed and/or abnormal tooth eruption.

Possible effects on fluid status and bowel function

Fluid status may be affected because of issues related to Down syndrome:

  • Limited feeding skill development, preventing adequate fluid intake
  • Cardiac problems sometimes making a fluid restriction necessary

Constipation is a problem for many children with Down syndrome for a number of reasons:

  • Limited feeding skill development, preventing adequate fluid and fiber intake
  • GI malformations
  • Hypotonia

Diarrhea can be a problem for children with Down syndrome:

  • Malabsorption because of GI malformations
   
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