How to Calculate Fluid Restoration in Pediatrics

Dehydration occurs when the body loses too much water. This condition can be life-threatening, particularly in children. Dehydration is caused by excessive vomiting or diarrhea, inadequate fluid intake, and prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Symptoms of dehydration in children include lack of energy, tearless crying, sunken eyes and decreased urine output. Begin rehydration measures as soon as you suspect the child is becoming dehydrated.

Things You'll Need

• Pediatric fluids with electrolytes
• Salt
• Sugar
• Drinking water

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Instructions

• 1

  Calculate fluid loss by comparing your child's current weight to his pre-illness weight. The difference is then estimated in milliliters. Five percent weight loss is equal to approximately 500 milliliters of fluid.

• 2

  Begin rehydration measures immediately. Obtain prepared pediatric electrolyte-restoring fluids from the store. Begin giving your child sips of fluid, even if he is still vomiting. If vomiting occurs right after drinking, wait 30 to 60 minutes and begin again. If prepared fluid is not available, make your own electrolyte-restoring fluid by combining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 6 teaspoons of sugar in 1 liter of drinking water. Give sips of this mixture to your child or administer it in spoonfuls if he continues to vomit.

• 3

  Continue to give your child fluids until urine output increases and urine color is pale yellow or clear. Monitor your child's weight to assess fluid restoration. Pre-illness weight should be reached within 48 hours of rehydration efforts. In addition, symptoms of dehydration should begin to resolve.