How to Care for Someone Who Has Vomited

Vomiting can indicate anything from a minor stomach bug to something more serious. The important thing is that you care for the sick person properly and be on the lookout for signs of a more serious ailment.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Applesauce
• Bananas
• Rice
• clear liquids
• toast

1. Stop giving food or liquids to anyone who has vomited. He or she should refrain from eating or drinking anything for approximately two hours.

2. Give clear liquids after the two-hour period. The person should sip on things like water, ginger ale, 7-Up, broth, apple juice, Gatorade or ice chips in order to stay hydrated.

3. Increase the liquids if the person does not continue vomiting.

4. Slowly introduce the BRAT diet: bananas, rice, applesauce and toast.

5. Gradually resume a normal diet 24 to 48 hours after the vomiting has ceased.

Tips & Warnings

• Call the doctor if vomiting persists for more than 8 hours and the person is unable to keep down any food or liquid.

• Severe abdominal pain accompanied by a fever indicates that you should seek medical care.

• Watch for signs of dehydration, which include dizziness, decreased urination and fatigue. Children can become dehydrated much faster than adults and require constant observation when ill.

• Don't give orange juice, lemonade or other citrus juices to someone who is vomiting. They are extremely acidic and can exacerbate the problem.

• Other foods to avoid include alcohol, caffeine and dairy products.