Some dehydration
Although this is not as serious as ‘severe dehydration’ it is still important that you treat a child who has ‘some dehydration’ in order to prevent his situation becoming worse. Box 5.4 below sets out Plan B: the steps to take to treat a child with some dehydration.
Box 5.4 Plan B: Treatment of a child with some dehydration
Plan B: Treat Some Dehydration with ORS
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Give in clinic recommended amount of ORS over 4-hour period DETERMINE AMOUNT OF ORS TO GIVE DURING FIRST 4 HOURS |
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| AGE | Up to 4 Months | 4 months up to 12 months | 12 months up to 2 years | 2 years up to 5 years |
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| Weight in kg | < 6 kg | 6–10 kg | 10–12 kg | 12–19 kg |
| ORS in ml | 200–400 | 400–700 | 700–900 | 900–1400 |
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Use the child’s age only when you do not know the weight. The approximate amount of ORS required (in ml) can also be calculated by multiplying the child’s weight (in kg) times 75. ● If the child wants more ORS than shown, give more. ● For infants under 6 months who are not breastfed, also give 100–200 ml clean water during his period. SHOW THE MOTHER HOW TO GIVE ORS SOLUTION. ● Give frequent small sips from a cup or cup and spoon (one spoon every 1–2 minutes). ● If the child vomits, wait 10 minutes. Then continue, but more slowly. ● Continue breastfeeding whenever the child wants. |
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AFTER 4 HOURS: ● Reassess the child and classify the child for dehydration. ● Select the appropriate plan to continue treatment. ● Begin feeding the child in clinic. |
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IF THE MOTHER MUST LEAVE BEFORE COMPLETING TREATMENT: ● Show her how to prepare ORS solution at home. ● Show her how much ORS to give to finish 4-hour treatment at home. ● Give her enough ORS packets to complete rehydration. Also give her a box of 10 packets of ORS as recommended in Plan A. ● Explain the 4 Rules of Home Treatment; these are: 1 GIVE EXTRA FLUIDS 2 GIVE ZINC SUPPLEMENTS 3 CONTINUE FEEDING 4 WHEN TO RETURN |
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