GuidelinesEML (Adult Hospital STG)
Dehydration/Ketosis in Labour
Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Hospital Level, Adults, Updated for the 2023 Edition
O99.2 + (E86)
DESCRIPTION
Subclinical dehydration is often missed in labour.
GENERAL MEASURES
Encourage adequate oral fluid intake.
MEDICINE TREATMENT
Mild dehydration
Give oral fluids.
Moderate/severe dehydration
Administer intravenous fluids, e.g.:
- Sodium chloride 0.9%, IV, 250 mL/hour.
Re-evaluate hydration hourly.
Standard Treatment Guidelines and Essential Medicines List for South Africa, Adult Hospital Level, 2025-9 Review_Version 2.0_26 March 2026
Chapter 6 Obstetrics_6.15 Dehydration/Ketosis in Labour