Oral rehydration therapy: a simple, effective solution.

Nurses assess severity of dehydration as well as prescribe and supervise oral rehydration therapy to treat the following nursing diagnosis: fluid imbalance, less than body requirements, related to diarrhea. Published literature is reviewed to address the scope of the problem in the United States, provide a historical perspective, and review the components of oral rehydration solution. The nursing management of dehydration is outlined using the nursing process. The need for further nursing research, especially related to homemade oral rehydration solution, is discussed.