Chronic or Persistent Diarrhoea (PD)

Definition

Important points in history

Important points on examination

Determine whether

Who to admit?

Investigations

(a) Assessment, resuscitation and early stabilisation as for Acute diarrhoea -PLAN A, B or C Acute Gastroenteritis

(b) Feeding

Infants under 6 months

Children aged 6 months or more

(c) Micronutrient supplementation

All children with PD and malnutrition should have an initial dose of Vitamin A

A 2 week daily intake at least two times the recommended daily allowance for (see Formulary for dosages)

Monitoring

Children should resume appropriate diet for their age as soon as treatment successful

Discharge when

Follow up and Rehabilitation

Reference:
WHO Pocket Book of Hospital Care for Children 1st Malawi Edition (2013)