Preschool & School Age - Diarrhea Flashcards
1
Q
Who’s at serious risk when it comes to diarrhea?
A
Infants and children because it can cause dehydration
2
Q
What causes diarrhea?
A
- Virus that infects lining of intestines
- food poisoning
- bacterial infections
- parasitic infections
3
Q
Signs of dehydration?
A
- level of energy
- urine (frequency, amount, concentration)
- mucous membranes, tears, eyes, fontanelle in babies
4
Q
What’s the main thing you want to prevent when it comes to diarrhea in children?
A
Dehydration
5
Q
How to care for babies less than 6 months with diarrhea?
A
- continue breastfeeding or formula but offer feedings more often
- give oral rehydration solution (after or between feedings)
- do not give other liquids to babies such as water, juice, sports drinks, tea
6
Q
What to do if a baby less than 6 months is not drinking as much milk as usual?
A
Give baby 1 teaspoon of fluid (breastmilk/formula) every 3 minutes and increase amount as tolerated
7
Q
How to care for toddlers and children with diarrhea?
A
- no sugar (makes diarrhea worse)
- plenty of fluids & ORS
- should keep eating solid foods
- avoid dairy products
8
Q
What can make diarrhea worse?
A
Antibiotics
Other medications should not be given unless directed by healthcare providers
9
Q
When should child be seen my doctor?
A
- Showing signs of mild dehydration but can drink some fluids
- less than 3 months of age
- mild diarrhea less than 2 weeks
- vomiting less than 48 hours
10
Q
When should child go to the ER?
A
- not drinking fluids and signs of dehydration
- green or blood stools
- severe abdominal pain
- child appears very sick
- fever or diarrhea that doesn’t go away
