About the content
Gastroenteritis is common in children but can become serious without proper care. Early recognition, oral rehydration therapy (ORT), ondansetron use, and IV fluids are key to preventing complications. This module offers clear guidance for managing pediatric gastroenteritis in the emergency setting. Young children can dehydrate quickly, so timely intervention is essential. Understanding fluid therapy, medication use, discharge planning, and family education helps ensure effective treatment and reduces unnecessary interventions. In just 20 minutes, this module will sharpen your ability to manage pediatric gastroenteritis—supporting better comfort, care, and outcomes.
What You Will Learn
- Effectively triage children with gastroenteritis based on severity and risk factors
- Define oral rehydration therapy (ORT) and apply it in appropriate cases
- Understand the appropriate use of ondansetron in managing nausea and vomiting
- Determine when IV fluids and adjunctive therapies are necessary for rehydration
- Provide comprehensive discharge counseling to families on at-home care and warning signs
Acknowledgements
Created by
Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia
chop.edu

and
Pediatric Pandemic Network

The Pediatric Pandemic Network is supported in part by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) as part of cooperative agreements U1IMC43532 and U1IMC45814 with 0 percent financed with nongovernmental sources. The content presented here is that of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of, nor an endorsement by HRSA, HHS, or the U.S. Government. For more information, visit HRSA.gov.
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You are free to download and share this work for noncommercial purposes, as long as you credit Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia for the original creation.
Enrollment options
Gastroenteritis is common in children but can become serious without proper care. Early recognition, oral rehydration therapy (ORT), ondansetron use, and IV fluids are key to preventing complications. This module offers clear guidance for managing pediatric gastroenteritis in the emergency setting. Young children can dehydrate quickly, so timely intervention is essential. Understanding fluid therapy, medication use, discharge planning, and family education helps ensure effective treatment and reduces unnecessary interventions. In just 20 minutes, this module will sharpen your ability to manage pediatric gastroenteritis—supporting better comfort, care, and outcomes.
What You Will Learn
- Effectively triage children with gastroenteritis based on severity and risk factors
- Define oral rehydration therapy (ORT) and apply it in appropriate cases
- Understand the appropriate use of ondansetron in managing nausea and vomiting
- Determine when IV fluids and adjunctive therapies are necessary for rehydration
- Provide comprehensive discharge counseling to families on at-home care and warning signs
