The CPG committee has developed a Nasogastric fluids CPG. The CPG covers nasogastric fluid therapy for rehydration, maintenance fluids and restricted fluids in unwell children.
The Key points for the CPG are
- Whenever possible the enteral route (oral or nasogastric) should be used for fluids
- Shocked children require Intravenous (IV) resuscitation – see Resuscitation: care of the seriously unwell child
- Serial weights are the best measure of acute changes in fluid status
- Rehydration treats dehydration, not the underlying cause. Careful and regular clinical review is required
The CPG forms part of suite of hydration CPGs covering IV fluids, dehydration, vomiting and gastroenteritis.