Fluid of choice in an infant with diarrhea is:
**Core Concept**
Oral rehydration therapy (ORT) is the cornerstone of managing dehydration in infants and children, particularly those with diarrhea. The goal of ORT is to replenish lost fluids, electrolytes, and minerals to prevent dehydration and its complications.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends an oral rehydration solution (ORS) as the fluid of choice for infants with diarrhea. ORS contains a balanced mixture of sodium chloride, glucose, potassium chloride, and citrate, which helps to correct dehydration, maintain electrolyte balance, and promote intestinal absorption. The sodium concentration in ORS is higher than in breast milk or formula, which is essential for infants with diarrhea. The glucose in ORS enhances sodium absorption in the intestine, making it an effective treatment for dehydration.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** This option is likely to be incorrect because it does not specify a balanced electrolyte solution, which is essential for correcting dehydration.
* **Option B:** This option may be incorrect because it does not mention the specific electrolytes and minerals that are essential for replenishing lost fluids.
* **Option D:** This option is likely to be incorrect because it may not provide the necessary sodium and glucose to enhance intestinal absorption.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
In infants with diarrhea, ORT should be initiated within the first few hours of onset to prevent severe dehydration. The WHO-recommended ORS should be used as the first-line treatment, and breast milk or formula should be continued or re-initiated once the infant is rehydrated.
**Correct Answer: C. Oral rehydration solution (ORS)**