Dehydration was an existing Victorian CPG that has been revised then reviewed by CPG Committee members. It will be considered for PIC endorsement on 8 October.
Key Points
- Weight loss is the best measure of dehydration. Clinicals signs can help estimate the severity of dehydration but are often imprecise
- If a child is haemodynamically unstable (ie in shock), prompt fluid resuscitation with fluid boluses must be given. Sepsis must be considered
- Rehydrate enterally (orally or via nasogastric route), unless severe dehydration or shock