Initial work-up

• Hydration assessment - oral intake and output
• Weight
• Stool MC&S
• Stool rotavirus/adenovirus
• Blood tests not normally needed

Recommended pre-referral treatment

• Rehydration and re-feeding advice
• See  Acute Gastroenteritis in children, by Dr. Annette Webb and Dr. Mike Starr, The RACGP.

When to refer

• If there is significant dehydration or the child is unable to tolerate oral rehydration.

Also consider referral if -

• There is the potential of complicating other acute or chronic medical conditions.
• The child is pre-term or less than three months of age (increased likelihood of surgical cause).

Resources

• Refer
• Contact
• RCH Primary Care Liaison (GP website)
• Kids HealthInfo (Parent information website)

References and more reading