Today our topic of discussion is Oral Rehydration Therapy.
Oral Rehydration Therapy
ORAL REHYDRATION THERAPY
Oral rehydration therapy (ORT) is the giving of fluid by mouth to prevent and/or correct the dehydration that is a result of diarrhea (Fig. 31.16).
Purpose
- To prevent dehydration
- To prevent morbidity and mortality due to acute diarrheal diseases.
The Formula for ORS
- The formula for ORS (Oral rehydration solution) recommended by WHO and UNICEF contains. 3.5 g sodium chloride
- 2.9 g trisodium citrate dihydrate (or 2.5 gm bicarbonate).
- 1.5 g potassium chloride sodium
- 20 g glucose (anhydrous)
- The above ingredients are dissolved in one liter of clean water.
Equipment Needed
- Take one liter of boiled and cooled drinking water
- Clean glass of 200 mL capacity
- A clean vessel to mix the solution
- .A clean spoon to mix the solution and feed the child.
Procedure (Fig. 31.16)
- Pour one liter of clean water into a clean vessel
- Open a packet of ORS and pour all the contents into the vessel
- Stir with a clean spoon till it completely dissolves
- Take some solution in a clean glass
- Feed the child frequently with small doses of the solution.
Action of ORT
- Oral rehydration therapy does not stop the diarrhea, but it replaces the lost fluids and essential salts thus preventing or treating dehydration and reducing the danger
- The glucose contained in ORS solution enables the intestine to absorb the fluid and the salts more effectively. ORT alone is an effective treatment for 90- 95% of patients suffering from acute watery diarrhea regardless of cause.
General Instructions
- Oral rehydration therapy is the cheap, simple and effective way to treat dehydration caused by diarrhea.
- ORT is safe and can be used to treat anyone suffering from diarrhea, without having to make a detailed diagnosis before the solution is given
- Children must always treat immediately because they become dehydrated more quickly
- The must learn to recognize the signs of dehydration which need ORS or special care
- If ORT is given at home early, dehydration can often be prevented and many children will not become so ill.
Read more: