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What to Say in an Emergency

When Calling Emergency Services

Say exactly:

"My child is severely dehydrated. They are [age], haven't urinated in [hours], and are [describe alertness level]. They need immediate medical attention."

When Calling Pediatrician

Say exactly:

"I'm concerned about dehydration in my [age] child. Their last wet diaper/urination was [time] and they're showing [specific symptoms]."

Step-by-Step Instructions

  • 1
    Assess Dehydration Level
    • Check for dry mouth, sticky saliva, or no saliva
    • Look for sunken eyes or dark circles under eyes
    • Note when last urination occurred
    • Test skin elasticity (pinch test on chest or forehead)
    • Assess alertness and energy level
  • 2
    Begin Oral Rehydration
    • Use oral rehydration solution (ORS) like Pedialyte
    • Give small, frequent amounts (1-2 teaspoons every 5 minutes)
    • For infants: continue breastfeeding or formula
    • Gradually increase amount if child tolerates it well
  • 3
    Monitor Progress
    • Track fluid intake and urination
    • Watch for improvement in alertness and energy
    • Check that mouth becomes moist
    • Note if tears return when crying
  • 4
    Prevent Worsening
    • Keep child in cool environment
    • Avoid sugary drinks or plain water for severe dehydration
    • Don't force large amounts of fluid at once
    • Seek medical care if no improvement in 2-4 hours

Watch for Signs

Monitor your child for these symptoms:

🚩 Severe Dehydration (Emergency)

  • No urination for 12+ hours (8+ hours in infants)
  • Sunken eyes and cheeks
  • Dry mouth with sticky or no saliva
  • Skin stays "tented" when pinched
  • Extreme lethargy or unconsciousness
  • Rapid heartbeat and breathing
  • Cool, mottled hands and feet
  • Sunken soft spot in infants

⚠️ Moderate Dehydration (Needs attention)

  • Decreased urination (6-8 hours without)
  • Dry mouth and decreased saliva
  • Fewer tears when crying
  • Mild skin tenting
  • Increased thirst and irritability
  • Slightly sunken eyes
  • Fatigue and decreased activity

💚 Mild Dehydration (Monitor closely)

  • Slightly decreased urination
  • Mild thirst
  • Normal alertness
  • Moist mouth
  • Normal skin elasticity
  • Tears present when crying

FAQs (Common Parent Questions)

How much fluid should my child drink daily?

Infants need 2-3 oz per pound daily. Toddlers need 4-6 cups, children 6-8 cups, and teens 8-10 cups. Increase during illness, hot weather, or physical activity.

What's the best fluid for rehydration?

Oral rehydration solutions (Pedialyte, WHO-ORS) are best as they contain the right balance of electrolytes. For mild dehydration, water is fine. Avoid sugary drinks or sports drinks for young children.

How can I tell if my baby is dehydrated?

Watch for fewer wet diapers (less than 6 per day), sunken soft spot, no tears when crying, dry mouth, and decreased alertness. Babies dehydrate faster than older children.

When should I seek medical care?

Seek immediate care for severe symptoms, no improvement after 4 hours of oral rehydration, persistent vomiting, or if you're concerned about your child's condition.

Can I make oral rehydration solution at home?

In emergencies: mix 1/2 teaspoon salt + 2 tablespoons sugar in 1 liter clean water. However, commercial solutions are safer and more accurate for electrolyte balance.

Real Parent Tips

Real Parent Experiences

"I learned to count wet diapers during stomach bugs. When we dropped from 6 to 2 diapers a day, I knew to call the doctor."

— Sarah Johnson, Denver, CO

"Popsicles made from Pedialyte were a game-changer. My daughter wouldn't drink it, but she'd eat the popsicles."

— Miguel Santos, San Antonio, TX

"The pinch test on the chest helped me realize how dehydrated my son was. His skin stayed tented for 3 seconds - that's when I knew we needed the ER."

— Rachel Green, Portland, OR
This guide is intended for quick reference and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a medical professional if uncertain.