Section 4: Intervention Strategies

Acute problems with fluid status or bowel function require immediate medical attention. Nutrition intervention is useful for preventing (or minimizing) problems:

• Acute fluid imbalances such as dehydration or water intoxication require immediate medical attention. Nutrition interventions can be developed to prevent crises related to fluid imbalances.
  
• Problems with constipation can often be prevented with nutrition intervention, however, a medical approach is often necessary once a child is constipated. Bowel impactions can be life-threatening for some children, and require immediate medical attention.

Although diarrhea, especially chronic diarrhea, has nutritional implications, treatment is a medical concern. Diarrhea that causes dehydration should be immediately addressed from a medical perspective. Nutrition interventions that focus on minimizing complications and preventing future problems are helpful.