Comparison of the sodium contents of six commonly recommended oral rehydration solutions
Zietsman, J.; Hay, I.T.; Hansen, J.D.; Dauth, J.; Dreyer, M.J.
South African Medical Journal 76(9): 478-479
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0256-9574 PMID: 2814723 Document Number: 339740
The sodium contents of six differently prepared oral rehydration solutions (ORS) were measured. A total of 452 solutions were prepared in our gastro-enteritis unit. The finger-pinch-and-cup method produced sodium values that were too high and too variable. The most acceptable sodium level was achieved using half a 5 ml medicine teaspoon or 1 level common household teaspoon of salt in 1 litre of water. Half a commonly available household teaspoon of salt caused sodium levels to be low but still acceptable and safe. We recommend that half a teaspoon of salt in 1 litre of water be used when preparing an ORS.