First aid for a victim of diarrhoea

Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea refers to the frequent passing of loose and watery stool from a person. This problem leads to loss of much water from the body just as vomiting. Diarrhoea can be caused by taking contaminated foods or drinks. Loss of water in the body leads to serious effects such as weakness, tiredness and even death. Thus a victim of diarrhoea needs to be given first aid immediately in order to save life.

Procedure for providing first aid to a victim of diarrhoea

The following are important steps to be taken to help a person who has diarrhoea:

1. Place the patient in a safe and clean place.
2. Give the patient a solution of oral dehydration salts to restore water lost by diarrhoea.
3. Give the patient plenty of fruit juice and safe water to restore the lost water and mineral salts.
4. Take the patient to hospital immediately.