Complementary Therapy Based on Maggots to Improve Nutrition in Toddlers: A Nursing Approach

Abstract

Complementary therapy using maggot therapy has recently emerged as a novel approach to improving child nutrition, particularly in malnourished toddlers. This approach integrates the therapeutic use of maggots with nursing interventions to address the nutritional deficiencies commonly observed in early childhood. Malnutrition in toddlers is a critical issue, affecting growth, cognitive development, and overall health. While conventional treatments focus primarily on dietary interventions and supplementation, complementary therapies like maggot therapy have demonstrated potential in promoting wound healing and enhancing nutrient absorption, especially in cases of protein-energy malnutrition. Maggot therapy, a practice that involves the controlled use of sterile larvae, has been traditionally applied in wound care but is now being explored for its broader applications in nutritional rehabilitation. The larvae stimulate tissue regeneration, reduce infection, and facilitate better absorption of nutrients, which are crucial for a child's growsth. This nursing approach involves the holistic care of the child, combining nutritional assessment, therapy, and continuous monitoring to ensure optimal health outcomes. This paper explores the integration of maggot-based therapy into nursing practices for malnourished children, examining its impact on nutritional improvement, healing processes, and overall health. It emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary approaches, including nursing care, to address the complex needs of malnourished children. Through this innovative therapeutic approach, the potential to reduce malnutrition and its associated risks is significantly enhanced, offering a promising adjunct to conventional treatments for improving child nutrition and health.