Final answer:
The nursing diagnosis 'Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than Body Requirements' applies to patients with a low BMI and insufficient nutritious food intake, often caused by diseases or limited access to a varied diet. Treatment focuses on increasing nutrient and energy intake to address undernutrition.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nursing diagnosis Imbalanced Nutrition: Less than Body Requirements may be indicated for patients who have an insufficient intake of nutritious foods. Indicators of this condition include a low body mass index (BMI), which suggests low body fat reserves. For adults, a BMI less than 18.5 kg/m² signals underweight status, while for children, being under the 5th percentile of BMI for age indicates they are underweight. Additionally, individuals with certain diseases such as cancer, AIDS, or Alzheimer's disease may have a reduced appetite or digestive issues, leading to undernutrition. In such cases, intake of energy is below the minimum daily requirement, often leading to being underweight and having other nutritional deficiencies.
Furthermore, undernutrition can be compounded by high levels of malnutrition, which occurs when there is a lack of access to a varied diet with sufficient protein. Undernutrition is a concern across various demographics, including the elderly and those living in poverty. Treatment typically involves interventions to ensure adequate nutrient and energy intake, which may entail dietary changes, nutritional supplements, or medical care to address underlying health conditions.