In mild dehydration due to viral gastroenteritis, which statement is true?

In mild dehydration due to viral gastroenteritis, which statement is true?

• A. Parenteral nutrition should be started immediately
• B. Oral rehydration therapy with continued feeding is preferred
• C. Only clear liquids should be given
• D. Diluted formula is recommended

Answer: (B)

The main idea is that mild dehydration from viral gastroenteritis is best treated with fluids and electrolytes taken by the mouth while continuing normal feeding. Oral rehydration solutions are designed to replace water, sodium, and other electrolytes efficiently; the glucose in these solutions helps the intestine absorb sodium and water via the sodium-glucose transport mechanism, which speeds rehydration. Keeping feeding ongoing supports energy and nutrient intake, helps maintain gut mucosal health, and prevents nutritional decline during recovery. In this scenario, parenteral (IV) fluids aren’t needed unless dehydration is more severe or there are signs that the patient cannot drink or is unstable. Strategies that rely only on clear liquids, or dilute formula, provide inadequate calories and electrolytes and can hinder recovery. So, using oral rehydration therapy with continued feeding best meets both fluid repair and nutritional needs.

The main idea is that mild dehydration from viral gastroenteritis is best treated with fluids and electrolytes taken by the mouth while continuing normal feeding. Oral rehydration solutions are designed to replace water, sodium, and other electrolytes efficiently; the glucose in these solutions helps the intestine absorb sodium and water via the sodium-glucose transport mechanism, which speeds rehydration. Keeping feeding ongoing supports energy and nutrient intake, helps maintain gut mucosal health, and prevents nutritional decline during recovery. In this scenario, parenteral (IV) fluids aren’t needed unless dehydration is more severe or there are signs that the patient cannot drink or is unstable. Strategies that rely only on clear liquids, or dilute formula, provide inadequate calories and electrolytes and can hinder recovery. So, using oral rehydration therapy with continued feeding best meets both fluid repair and nutritional needs.