Tick symptoms and signs to grade dehydration in a child under 5 with diarrhoea or vomiting.
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| Category | Action (NICE CG84) |
|---|---|
| No detectable dehydration | Usual fluids, including milk; ORS if at risk |
| Clinical dehydration | ORS 50 mL/kg over 4 hours plus maintenance, little and often |
| Red flags | Same-day paediatric assessment |
| Suspected shock | Immediate hospital transfer for IV fluids |
Discourage fruit juice and fizzy drinks. Reassess regularly.
50 mL/kg over 4 hours, plus maintenance fluid, in small frequent amounts.
Pale or mottled skin, cold extremities, weak pulse, prolonged capillary refill and decreased consciousness.
Yes. Continue breastfeeding and other milk feeds.
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