Which of the following is a common treatment for severe dehydration in children?

Intravenous fluid replacement is the standard and most effective treatment for severe dehydration in children. Severe dehydration can occur due to conditions such as gastroenteritis or prolonged vomiting and diarrhea, where the child loses significant amounts of fluids and electrolytes. In these cases, oral rehydration may not provide the necessary rapid restoration of fluids or can be ineffective if the child is unable to keep fluids down.

Administering intravenous fluids allows for immediate access to hydration and critical electrolyte correction, which is crucial for a child’s recovery and overall health. It ensures that fluids are delivered directly into the bloodstream, allowing for better control of fluid balance and more rapid physiological response compared to oral rehydration methods. Additionally, IV therapy can be tailored based on the specific needs of the patient, including types and volumes of fluids.

While oral rehydration can be effective for mild to moderate dehydration, in cases of severe dehydration, it is simply not adequate, as the child may not be able to drink enough fluid without exacerbating their condition. Home remedies lack the controlled environment and monitoring required in severe cases, and while mild sedatives may be beneficial for managing anxiety in some situations, they do not address the urgent need for hydration. Thus, intravenous fluid replacement is the appropriate