Dehydration Clinical Pathway — Emergency Department and Inpatient
Dehydration Clinical Pathway — Emergency Department and Inpatient
Oral Rehydration Therapy Instructions for Families
- Oral Rehydration Therapy, (ORT), is a treatment we use for dehydrated patients.
- A small amount of liquid (1-2 mL/kg of the child’s body weight) is given every 5 minutes with a syringe or small cup over 3 – 4 hours. To treat your child today, we will start with ________ mL every 5 minutes.
- Pedialyte is the best fluid choice for children < 1 year of age. For older children, Gatorade or 1/2 apple juice and 1/2 water can be substituted. These fluids have the most favorable amounts of salt and sugar, which help the intestines to reabsorb water.
- Although your child may want more, it is important to give the fluid slowly. This allows the stomach to absorb the liquid and helps prevent vomiting. Please watch the clock and give only the recommended amount every 5 minutes.
- Your child may refuse the fluid initially, but with a few feeds it often gets much easier and the child begins to take the fluids.
- If your child vomits, let your nurse know.
- If your child repeatedly refuses to take the fluids or is passing frequent, large volume stools, let your nurse know.
Patient Education Video