Gastroenteritis is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines, typically presenting with vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. It is primarily caused by viral, bacterial, or parasitic infections. Incidence: A major cause of morbidity and mortality in children under five, especially in low- and middle-income nations. Children may experience 2–3 episodes annually. Diarrheal diseases, including gastroenteritis, are the second leading cause of death in this age group. Etiology: Viruses: Rotavirus, Norovirus (most common). Bacteria: Salmonella, E. coli, Shigella, Campylobacter. Parasites: Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium. Others: Food allergies, drug reactions, toxins. Clinical Manifestations: Diarrhea Vomiting Nausea Abdominal cramps Fever Dehydration Diagnostic Evaluation: History & Physical Exam to assess symptoms and hydration. Blood Tests (CBC, electrolytes) to evaluate severity. Stool Analysis for pathogen detection. Urinalysis to assess hydration and renal function. Imaging if complications are suspected. Management: ORS for mild/moderate dehydration. IV fluids for severe cases or inability to tolerate oral intake. Continue regular feeding and breastfeeding. Introduce BRAT diet for mild cases. Antibiotics if bacterial cause is confirmed. Antiemetics for persistent vomiting. Avoid antidiarrheals in children. Probiotics to restore gut flora and reduce symptom duration. Prevention: Practice proper handwashing and food hygiene. Rotavirus vaccination for infants. Access to safe drinking water. Promote exclusive breastfeeding for first six months. Educate on food storage and preparation. Clean/disinfect surfaces and utensils. Strengthen community sanitation programs.

1. GASTROENTIRITIS
Mr. Pradeep Abothu, M.Sc (N), PhD Scholar,
Associate Professor, Dept. of Child Health(N)
ASRAM College Of Nursing

2. Gastroenteritis is an
inflammation of the stomach and
intestines, leading to symptoms
like vomiting, diarrhea, and
abdominal pain. It is commonly
caused by infections from viruses,
bacteria, or parasites.
DEFINITION

3. INCIDENCE
• Gastroenteritis is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality
among children under five years of age, particularly in low-
and middle-income countries.
• It is estimated that each child experiences about 2-3 episodes
of gastroenteritis per year.
• Diarrheal diseases, including gastroenteritis, are the second
leading cause of death in children under five.

4. ETIOLOGY
• Viral Infections: The most common cause, particularly
rotavirus and norovirus.
• Bacterial Infections: Salmonella, Escherichia coli, Shigella, and
Campylobacter.
• Parasitic Infections: Giardia lamblia, Cryptosporidium.
• Other Causes: Food allergies, medication reactions, and
exposure to toxins.

5. CLINICAL
MANIFESTATIONS
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Abdominal Pain and Cramps
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Dehydration

7. DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION TOOLS
• Clinical History and Physical Examination: Initial assessment
based on symptoms and signs.
• Blood Tests: Complete blood count (CBC) and electrolytes to
assess dehydration and infection severity.
• Stool Analysis: Identifying pathogens through cultures, antigen
detection, or microscopy.
• Urinalysis: To check for dehydration and renal function.
• Imaging Studies: Rarely needed, but may be used if
complications or other diagnoses are suspected.

8. MEDICAL
MANAGEMENT
• Administer oral rehydration solution (ORS) for mild to moderate
dehydration
• Administer intravenous fluids for severe dehydration or if oral intake
is not possible
• Continue feeding regular diet to the extent tolerated
• Continue breastfeeding for infants
• Offer BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) for its bland nature
• Adminester Antibiotics if a bacterial cause is confirmed
• Administer Antiemetics for severe vomiting
• Avoid antidiarrheal agents in children
• Administer probiotics to help restore gut flora and reduce the
duration of diarrhea

9. PREVENTION
• Emphasize hygiene practices, including handwashing and proper
food handling
• Vaccinate against rotavirus for infants
• Ensure access to clean and safe drinking water
• Promote exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months to
enhance immunity
• Educate parents and caregivers about proper food storage and
preparation techniques
• Encourage regular cleaning and disinfection of household surfaces
and utensils
• Implement community health programs to improve sanitation and
hygiene practices