Download Advice for Parents of Children with Diarrhoea and Vomiting A Guide

Advice for Parents of Children
with Diarrhoea and Vomiting
A Guide for Patients and their
Carers
Patient Information Leaflet
Diarrhoea and vomiting in children is very common and
usually short-lived. It is usually caused by infection in the
stomach and/or bowel. If the attack is in the stomach then
vomiting occurs. If it is lower in the bowel the main problem
is diarrhoea with loose, watery stools. We will collect a stool
sample, to try to discover which germ has caused the
infection. It usually takes a few days for the result to come
back.
What Hygiene Precautions Should I Take
The germs from diarrhoea and vomiting can be spread
easily from one person to another. It is therefore important
for you and your child to wash your hands with soap and
water and make sure they are carefully dried afterwards:
 Before and after going to the toilet
 After changing soiled nappies (even if disposable gloves
have been worn)
 Before touching and eating food
 Before you leave the room.
We would ask that you/your child do not use the general
play area because it is very easy to spread germs through
toys and other playthings. Your child must remain in the
side room and offer toys and activities for your child in the
room. We would also ask you to restrict the amount of
visitors you have as the risk of passing on the infection is
high.
What Treatment is Needed
It is important to keep offering your child regular drinks
avoiding fruit juices/fizzy drinks as well as dairy products as
these could make the diarrhoea and vomiting worse. You
may be asked to give your child DIORALYTE to help
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replace the water and salts lost from the body because of
the diarrhoea and vomiting. Solid foods and fluids including
breast or other milk feeds can be started again once the
vomiting settles. When your child is ready to eat again try
things like toast or plain biscuits. Then perhaps soup,
vegetables or potatoes. AVOID heavy, fatty or stodgy
meals for a while.
Your child may still have some diarrhoea when discharged
home. DO NOT WORRY, as diarrhoea can take up to two
weeks to stop but usually lasts for 5 - 7 days. Vomiting
should stop within three days. Antibiotics do not get rid of
these infections.
Arrange to see your GP if your child’s symptoms are:
 Taking longer than two weeks to improve
 Vomiting starts again
 If your child starts to seem unwell again e.g. passing
less urine than normal; lethargic or irritable.
If you require this leaflet in other languages or formats please telephone the
Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS) on: 01535 294019 for advice.
Please raise any issue you may have about your care and treatment with a
member of staff. Raising your concerns will not adversely affect the care you
will receive.
Author:
Version:
Approved by:
Caroline Owen
2
Pending
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Review Date:
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