Preparation of ORS

1. Importance of ORS

• ORS is a simple, cost effective and life saving solution to treat dehydration caused by diarrhoea.
• It helps replace lost fluids and essential salts in the body.
• Early administration of ORS reduces the risk of severe dehydration and hospitalization.

2. Ingredients of ORS

• Each WHO recommended ORS packet (usually 21 grams) contain- glucose, sodium chloride, potassium chloride and sodium citrate
• Use standard packets available from Government supplies or medicine stores.

3. Steps for preparation of ORS

1. Materials needed

• 1 clean ORS packet
• 1 litre of boiled and cooled or clean drinking water.
• Clean spoon for stirring.
• Clean container with lid

b. Procedure

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water
• Take exactly 1 litre(1000ml) of boiled and filtered water in a clean container.
• Cut open the ORS packet and pour the entire content into the water.
• Stir the solution well with a clean spoon until completely dissolved.
• Cover the container to keep it clean and safe from flies or dust.

4. Important instructions for use

• Use the ORS within 24 hours. Discard any left over after 24 hours.
• Give the ORS in small sips frequently using clean spoon.
• For children under 2 years give 50-100 ml after each loose stool.
• For children 2 years and older, give aoo-200ml after each loose stool.
• Continue with feeding and breast-feeding during diarrhoea.

5. Preparation of Home available fluid

• Take 1 litre of clean water in a container.
• Add 6 teaspoons of sugar and ½ teaspoon of salt.
• Stir well until fully dissolved.
• Use it and give small sips frequently.
• use within 24 hours

6. Dos and Don’ts

Do’s

• Always prepare ORS using boiled and filtered water.
• Make fresh ORS daily.
• Educate caregivers and parents about the benefits of ORS.

Don’ts

• Do not add extra sugar or salt.
• Do not use ORS prepared more than 24 hours ago.
• Do not boil ORS after preparation.
• Do not store ORS in dirty containers or bottles.

7. Referral to health facility

• If the child has sunken eyes, is usually sleepy, or unable to drink.
• If diarrhea continues for more than 2 days.
• If there is blood in stool or repeated vomiting.
• If the child develops fever or has signs of severe dehydration.