What is Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT)?
Oral Rehydration Therapy (ORT) is a simple, cost-effective treatment used to prevent and treat
dehydration caused by acute
diarrhea, especially in young children. ORT involves the oral intake of a solution containing water, glucose, and electrolytes, which helps to replace fluids lost through diarrhea and vomiting.
Why is ORT Important in Pediatrics?
Dehydration can be life-threatening, particularly in infants and young children. ORT is a critical intervention as it is effective, easy to administer, and can be used at home, making it accessible in low-resource settings. It has significantly reduced
mortality rates associated with diarrheal diseases.
When Should ORT be Used?
ORT should be initiated as soon as signs of dehydration are noticed. Symptoms include
dry mouth, decreased urine output, sunken eyes, and lethargy. Early intervention is key to prevent severe dehydration and complications.
How to Prepare ORT Solution?
Commercially available Oral Rehydration Salts (ORS) packets can be mixed with clean water according to the instructions. In the absence of ORS packets, a homemade solution can be prepared using 6 teaspoons of sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of salt dissolved in 1 liter of clean water. It is essential to ensure the proper proportions to avoid hypernatremia or hyponatremia.
How Much ORT Should be Given?
The amount of ORT given depends on the child’s weight and the severity of dehydration. Generally, for mild to moderate dehydration, children should be given 50-100 ml of ORS per kilogram of body weight over 4 hours. After the first 4 hours, the child should continue to receive ORS, breast milk, or age-appropriate fluids until dehydration resolves.
Can ORT be Used for Breastfed Infants?
Yes, breastfed infants can continue to breastfeed alongside receiving ORS. Breast milk provides essential nutrients and antibodies, which can help speed up recovery. It should not be withheld during episodes of diarrhea.
Are There Any Side Effects?
ORT is generally safe and has minimal side effects. However, overconsumption can lead to a risk of
hypernatremia. If a child experiences persistent vomiting or worsening symptoms, medical attention is necessary.
What If the Child Vomits the ORT Solution?
If a child vomits, wait for 5-10 minutes and then resume giving the ORT solution in smaller, more frequent sips. This approach can help the child retain the fluids and prevent further dehydration.
When Should Medical Help be Sought?
While ORT is effective for most cases of dehydration, medical help should be sought if the child has severe dehydration, persistent vomiting, bloody diarrhea, or if the child is unable to drink or breastfeed. Additionally, if there is no improvement after administering ORT, professional evaluation is needed.
Preventing Dehydration
Preventive measures include ensuring safe drinking water, practicing good hygiene, and maintaining proper
nutrition. Vaccinations against rotavirus and other diarrheal diseases can also help reduce the incidence of dehydration in children.
Conclusion
Oral Rehydration Therapy is a vital tool in managing dehydration in pediatric patients. Its simplicity, effectiveness, and accessibility make it an essential component of pediatric care, especially in resource-limited settings. Proper education on preparation and administration of ORT can empower caregivers to effectively manage dehydration and improve child health outcomes.
