Which treatment is NOT recommended for a child with viral gastroenteritis?

In managing viral gastroenteritis in children, the primary focus is on supportive care, particularly fluid rehydration. This is crucial because the main concern with gastroenteritis is dehydration resulting from vomiting and diarrhea. Fluid rehydration is essential to replace lost fluids and electrolytes, ensuring that the child can recover without further complications.

Pepto-bismol is not recommended for children with viral gastroenteritis due to potential risks. Although it can help with symptoms like diarrhea and nausea in adults, it contains bismuth subsalicylate, which is not suitable for children, especially those under 12 years. It can cause gastrointestinal side effects and carries a risk of Reye's syndrome in children recovering from viral infections, particularly influenza or chickenpox.

While dietary salt plays a role in the management of electrolyte balance during gastrointestinal upset and is often included in oral rehydration solutions, it is not recommended as a standalone treatment. Instead, the focus is on providing balanced rehydration solutions that contain both fluid and electrolytes.

Anti-motility agents are generally avoided in cases of viral gastroenteritis because they can prolong the infection by inhibiting the body’s natural response to expel the virus. Diarrhea helps rid the body of the