Serum Electrolytes and Acid-Base Status in Children with Severe Diarrhoea in Niger State

Acute diarrhoeal disease is a leading cause of childhood mortality in Nigeria, primarily through dehydration and electrolyte derangements. This study evaluates serum electrolytes including sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate alongside acid-base status in children aged 6 months to 5 years presenting with severe diarrhoea at a paediatric unit in Niger State, North Central Nigeria. A cross-sectional observational design was used, enrolling 160 children over a six-month period. Venous blood samples were collected at admission for electrolyte analysis and arterial blood gas measurement. Clinical severity of dehydration was graded using the World Health Organization scale, and duration, frequency, and character of diarrhoeal episodes were recorded. Stool culture and sensitivity tests were performed to identify causative pathogens. The study seeks to characterise the electrolyte and acid-base disturbance profiles associated with different grades of dehydration and specific microbial aetiologies. Comparative analysis will be conducted between children who received early oral rehydration therapy and those who did not. Results will contribute to improving acute management protocols for childhood diarrhoea in rural and semi-urban health facilities in North Central Nigeria. Keywords: serum electrolytes, acid-base status, diarrhoea, paediatric dehydration, Niger State.