Tình trạng sụt cân ở bệnh nhi sau nhập viện: Tỷ lệ sụt cân và các yếu tố nguy cơ tại Khoa Nội 3, Bệnh viện Nhi đồng 2

Hospitalization often poses significant nutritional challenges for pediatric patients, who are particularly vulnerable to the physiological stresses of acute and chronic illnesses. During inpatient care, children frequently experience reduced appetite and impaired nutrient absorption, leading to a substantial risk of weight loss. This phenomenon is a critical concern, as it directly impacts recovery outcomes, potentially extending hospital stays, increasing healthcare burdens, and negatively influencing long-term health. Recognizing weight loss as an early indicator of malnutrition risk, this study aims to determine the prevalence of weight loss and identify associated risk factors among hospitalized children at the Department of Internal Medicine 3, Children's Hospital 2, in 2025, thereby contributing to enhanced nutritional support and improved patient recovery.

Healthcare professionals in pediatrics and nutrition, hospital administrators, and researchers interested in pediatric inpatient care and nutritional management.

This cross-sectional descriptive study investigated the prevalence and associated risk factors of weight loss in 178 hospitalized children aged 0 to under 16 years at the Department of Internal Medicine 3, Children's Hospital 2, between March and May 2025. The methodology involved collecting data to assess changes in body weight and identify correlations with various patient characteristics. Key findings revealed a significant prevalence of weight loss, with 42.1% of children experiencing weight loss by day 3 of hospitalization, predominantly in the 2-<5% range (53.3%). At discharge, the prevalence increased to 51.7%, with 47.8% of children losing 2-<5% of their body weight and 2.2% losing ≥10%. Statistically significant risk factors for weight loss on day 3 included children aged 12 to under 48 months and those on an adult-like diet. At discharge, the same age group (12 to under 48 months) and those consuming porridge/gruel were identified as significant risk factors. The study concludes that weight loss is a widespread and concerning issue among pediatric inpatients, underscoring the critical need for proactive nutritional interventions. The implications highlight the necessity for enhanced nutritional counseling, meticulous monitoring of dietary intake and body weight throughout hospitalization, and tailored meal planning guidance for caregivers. Implementing these measures can effectively shorten treatment durations, prevent complications, and significantly improve overall recovery outcomes for this vulnerable population, aligning with the importance of `inpatient care` and appropriate `diet` for `children`.