Cholera, also known as Violent Dysentery or El tor, is the infection of the small intestine. The causative agent for Cholera is Vibrio choleriae. Cholera is said to be affecting millions of people in the world with deaths of 100,000-130,00 per year as of 2010.
Mode of Transmission of Cholera
The mode of transmission of Cholera is by the fecal-oral route.
Signs and Symptoms of Cholera
- Abdominal cramps
- Vomiting
- Initially, yellowish watery stool
- Rice watery stool
- Rapid dehydration
- Washer-woman’s hand
- Fever with cold skin
- Fishy odor stools
Diagnostic Exam for Cholera
The diagnostic tests for Cholera are Stool exam and the rectal swab.
Medical Management for Cholera
- Administer antibiotics as prescribed. (Drug of Choice: Tetracycline, by intravenous route)
- Replace fluids and electrolytes.
Nursing Care for Clients with Cholera
- Maintain fluid and lectrolyte balance. Note that the no. 1 indicator of dehydration before 48 hours is weight loss.
- Provided adequate nutrition.
- Monitor Input and Output regularly.
- Maintenance of nutrition.
- Intravenous fluid regulation.
- Provide for the comfort of the client
Prevention of Cholera
- Cholera, Dysentery, Typhoid (CDT) Immunization.
- Frequent hand washing.
- Better food handling, preparation, and storage.
- Eradication of flies.
