Parenteral rehydration therapy

Parenteral Rehydration Therapy

Parenteral Rehydration Therapy (PRT) is a method of replenishing fluids and electrolytes in the body using intravenous (IV) fluids administered through a vein.

PRT is beneficial when someone is unable to drink enough fluids to replace those lost due to vomiting, diarrhea, or other conditions. It is used to prevent or treat severe dehydration and can be used in infants, children, and adults.

PRT is also a primary therapy for the management of severe acute malnutrition (SAM). By restoring hydration with the right mix of fluids and electrolytes, children with SAM can begin to absorb nutrients from their food and can regain the energy they need to support growth.

There are several types of fluids that can be used for PRT, including normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride), Ringer’s lactate, and other solutions that contain various electrolytes.

Benefits of PRT

• Rehydration is more efficient than drinking fluids orally.
• It helps restore electrolyte balance.
• It helps to prevent serious complications from dehydration.
• It can provide nutrition when a person with SAM is unable to eat or drink.
• It can help treat shock due to dehydration.
• It can help with weight gain in individuals with malnutrition.

Risks of PRT

• There are some risks associated with PRT. These include infection caused by the invasive procedure, fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances, and allergic reactions to the solution used.
• PRT should only be administered by a qualified medical professional.
• It is important that the right solution is used to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. If the wrong solution is used, it can cause serious complications.