MEDizzy - A child is admitted with dehydration following a 24-hour

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Altered Fluid and Electrolytes

A child is admitted with dehydration following a 24-hour history of vomiting and diarrhea. Oral rehydration therapy is ordered. A nurse should:

ExplanationOral rehydration solutions enhance and promote reabsorption of sodium and water. These solutions reduce vomiting, decrease volume loss due to diarrhea, and decrease the duration of illness. Starting with small sips frequently reduces the incidence of further vomiting. Water is not indi- cated as a fluid to use for rehydration because it lacks the recommended 2 to 3 g/dL of glucose, 45 to 90 mEq/L of sodium, 20 to 25 mEq/L of potassium, and a base solution to equal an osmolality of 200 to 310 mOsm/L.