Children's Services

Commonly Heard Terms

DIAPER RASH

Diaper rash can be caused by a number of different factors. The most common cause is irritation from the ammonia in the urine and stool. Diaper rash can also be caused by a "yeast" infection such as Candida. A yeast infection is characterized by red skin with a border of red pinpoints. Diaper rash may also be caused by sensitivity to lotions, oils, or detergents and fabric softener.

To prevent diaper rash, keep the area dry by changing diapers often. If a rash occurs, clean the area with water and use zinc oxide to soothe and protect. If the rash has developed as a result of yeast, change the diaper often, wash with warm water and a mild soap, and apply an antifungal cream such as Nystatin or Mycostatin.

Often, the best cure for a diaper rash is to leave the area open to the air and to keep the area dry, although you may need to have your child seen by your doctor.

DIARRHEA

Diarrhea is a common problem for children. Most cases of diarrhea in children are mild and easily treated. However diarrhea can become a serious and extremely dangerous problem because diarrhea drains waters and salts from your child. If fluids are not replaced quickly your child may become dehydrated.

Diarrhea is watery and frequent stools - two or more watery stools in 24 hours or three times the usual number of stools in 24 hours.

To replace the important fluids lost with diarrhea, give your child an oral rehydration solution for the first 24 hours after the diarrhea starts. Oral rehydration solutions contain the ideal balance of water, salts, and sugar and are readily available at your local drugstore. Your pharmacist will help you find the appropriate solution and advise you regarding any special mixing instructions.

If your child is breastfeeding, continue to breastfeed on demand as well as offer the oral rehydrating solution (ORS). If your child is not breastfeeding, only give the oral rehydrating solution. Make up for lost fluid by offering one to three ounces of oral rehydrating solution every hour or after each watery or loose stool.

If your child is vomiting or refusing to drink fluids, use a teaspoon or medicine dropper. Give your child one tablespoon of fluids every 10-15 minutes until your child stops vomiting. Gradually start giving your child the appropriate diet for his/her age. Do not keep your child on only clear fluids for longer than 24 hours. Do not give sugary drinks such as fruit drinks, pop, Kool-Aid, or jello. Do not give over the counter medications to stop diarrhea.

Call your doctor if your child:

• is less than six months of age and has diarrhea
• has bloody or black stools
• is still vomiting after four to six hours
• has a fever
• shows signs of dehydration such as decrease in urination (less than four wet diapers in 24 hours), no tears when crying, dry skin, mouth and tongue, listless, sunken eyes, or a sunken fontanelle ( the soft spot on an infant's head)

DIRECT BLOOD DONATION

A process allowing parents to donate their blood to their baby.

DISCHARGE PLANNING

The process carried out by nurses, parents, and the health care team to make sure all tests, medical activities, parent teaching, and arrangements for follow-up are completed before a baby's release from the nursery.