Caring for a child age 1 to 5 with Diarrhea

Diarrhea (Age 1-5)

Definition – Diarrhea is:

  • The sudden increase in the number and looseness of stools
  • Diarrhea means 2 or more watery stools.
    • Reason: a few loose stools can be normal with changes in diet.
  • Most diarrhea is caused by a viral infection of the intestines.

Health Information Diarrhea Scale:
Mild: 2-5 watery stools per day
Moderate: 6-9 watery stools per day
Severe: 10 or more watery stools per day

The main risk of diarrhea is dehydration.
• Loose or runny stools do not cause dehydration.
• Frequent, watery stools can cause dehydration.

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Dosing for Tylenol (acetaminophen) and Motrin/Advil (Ibuprofen)

Tylenol (acetaminophen) can be used starting at birth HOWEVER in a child less than 3 months with a temperature above 100.4F a medical provider should be consulted.

This can happen through contacting the office during business hours or through our on call service when the clinic is not open. Either way you would call 614-688-9220.

 

The dose of Tylenol is 15 mg/kg so knowing your child’s weight is very important.  You can use this chart to decide the best dose for your child.

– Give medicine every 4 to 6 hours as needed (no more than 5 times in 24 hours)
– Do not use more than one product containing acetaminophen at the same time
– Use the measuring device that comes with liquid medicine
– If you have a question or need help to find the right product for your child talk to a pharmacist
5ml = 160mg Children’s Tablets
1 tablet = 80mg Junior Strength
1 tablet = 160mg

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