What it means
A balanced fluid that the gut absorbs well, because the sugar helps the intestine take up sodium and water with it. It is the first treatment for mild to moderate dehydrationdee-hy-DRAY-shunA state in which the body has lost more water than it has taken in.de- remove, lack ofhydr/o water-ation processFull entry , especially in children. Products include Pedialyte and the World Health Organization's packets. Sports drinks, juice and soda are not the same: they have too much sugar and too little salt.
For the nurse
Give small amounts often (for example 5 mL every few minutes by spoon or syringe for a vomiting child) and increase as tolerated. Record intake and output and wet diapers.
At a glance
| Also written | oral rehydration solutions, oral rehydration salts, ORS, oral rehydration therapy |
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Related terms
dehydration
A state in which the body has lost more water than it has taken in.
diarrhea
Loose or watery stools, usually three or more times a day or more often than normal for the person.
electrolyte
A mineral that carries an electric charge when dissolved in body fluids, such as sodium, potassium, calcium and chloride.
viral gastroenteritis
An infection of the stomach and intestines caused by a virus, such as norovirus or rotavirus.