Dehydration 7/14/05

Dehydration Signs of dehydration Skin Mucous membranes Dec. tearing Urinary output Fontanel Pulse, respirations, temperature Blood pressure, capillary refill

Water imbalances in Infants Greater fluid intake and output in relation to size. Larger proportion of ECF Larger body surface Higher metabolic rate Immature kidney function

Nursing Management-Diarrhea PREVENT SPREAD Assessment: skin vital signs weight fontanels accurate output (weigh diapers) Replace fluids (ORF, IV fluids) Replace electrolytes. (NA+, K+) Skin Care Sensory alterations

Mild to Moderate Diarrhea Identify signs of moderate diarrhea (<8% weight loss) oral rehydrating therapy (ORT) first, IVF if ORT does not work After rehydrating restart other fluids with ORT Older child can continue regular diet with ORT

Severe Diarrhea Identify signs of severe diarrhea (10% more weight loss) Immediate IV fluids to rehydrate Must replace losses and keep up with continued losses Electrolyte correction Treat the cause of diarrhea if possible