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Acute gastroenteritis with dehydration — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

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EasyGastroenterologyAcute gastroenteritis with dehydrationRACP Paediatrics

A 15-month-old has 24 hours of vomiting and watery diarrhoea. He is alert with dry mucosa, heart rate 150/min, capillary refill 2 seconds and no shock; weight loss is estimated at 5%. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Oral or nasogastric rehydration solution with frequent reassessment

Moderate dehydration without shock from gastroenteritis is managed with oral or nasogastric rehydration solution and reassessment. IV fluids are reserved for shock, severe dehydration or failed enteral rehydration. The pearl is that nasogastric rehydration is effective and avoids unnecessary intravenous therapy in many children.

Reference: RCH Clinical Practice Guidelines: Dehydration; Therapeutic Guidelines (eTG)