gastroenteritis

Question 1

gastroenteritis is

Answer 1

vomiting, diarrhoea or both
caused by viruses 70% of the time, bacteria 20% and protozoa 10%

Question 2

assessment of the child with gastroenteritis

Answer 2

mucous membranes, reduced urine output, tachycardia, sunken eyes, diminished skin turgor, ltered neurological status (drowsiness and irritability)
decreased peripheral perfusion (cool, mottles, pale peripheries, CRT >2 seconds)
anuria, hypotension

Question 3

investigations

Answer 3

nil required for mild cases
stool specimen required for bloody stool, prolonged diarrhoea, recent travel
FBC, urea, electrolytes and creatinine, BGL. venous blood gas should be done if IV rehydration

Question 4

Ddx for gastroenteritis

Answer 4

UTI
appendicitis
meningitis
DKA
heamolytic uraemic syndrome
congenital adrenal hyperplasia
irritable bowel disease
instussuscpetion

Question 5

medication for gastroenteritis

Answer 5

ondansetron may be used before a fluid trial or if the child vomits during regydratiion
it is not recommended as a dicharge medication because it can make diarrhoea last longer