Comparison of Nutritional Status and Quality of Life of Cerebral Palsy with and without Nasogastric Tube Use

Abstract

Cerebral palsy is a chronic disorder of the central nervous system that affects posture and muscle tone, usually occurring early in life. This disease is associated with muscle abnormalities, impaired coordination, and loss of selective motor control that reduces quality of life and causes dependence on others to assist them in daily activities. Neuromusculoskeletal disorders trigger many problems, including eating difficulties that affect the nutritional status. Evidence shows the successful use of NGT in overcoming malnutrition problems based on indicators of nutritional status and quality of life. This study aims to determine the difference in nutritional status and quality of life between cerebral palsy children who use NGT and those without NGT at Ulin Banjarmasin Hospital. The study was conducted using analytic observations with a cross-sectional approach. The sampling technique was purposive sampling. The results showed a significant difference between the quality of life of Cerebral Palsy children using NGT and those not using NGT with higher scores in the group of Cerebral Palsy children who did not use NGT.