Managing vomiting

Identify the cause

• Determine with the healthcare provider if there's a specific cause for the vomiting, such as medications, infections, or other medical conditions.
• If vomiting is severe, persistent, or associated with other worrying symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.

Hydration

• Sip clear fluids or use ice cubes to stay hydrated.
• Take small sips and avoid drinking large amounts at once.
• Consider oral rehydration solutions or discuss with a doctor about intravenous fluids if dehydration is a concern.

Diet and nutrition

• Promote a calm and quiet environment during meals.
• Eat small, regular and frequent meals.
• Eat plain and easily digestible foods such as crackers, toast, rice, boiled potatoes, pureed foods, or soups.
• Snack on salty foods like crisps or nuts.
• Ginger, like ginger ale or ginger biscuits, can help with nausea.
• Avoid spicy, greasy, or strong-smelling foods.

While vomiting

• Always have a large enough sick bowl, tissues, and water within reach.
• Sit as upright as possible.
• If unable to sit when sick, lay on one side with a supported head to protect the airways.

Comfort measures to help prevent vomiting

• Avoid sudden or rushed movements.
• Ensure good ventilation to reduce strong odors.
• Try relaxing activities such as listening to music or doing breathing exercises.
• After eating, remain in an upright position for at least an hour to reduce the risk of vomiting. Use pillows for extra support.
• Apply a cool, moist cloth to the forehead or back of the neck to provide a sense of relief.

Mouth care

• Rinse the mouth after vomiting to remove the acidic taste and protect teeth.
• Keep the mouth moist and clean.

Medications and medical advice

• Use anti-sickness (antiemetic) drugs as prescribed.
• Get the healthcare team to review any medications that might be causing nausea or vomiting and adjust as necessary.
• If vomiting tends to occur after taking specific medications, discuss this with the healthcare provider.

When to contact a healthcare professional

If you are unsure about what is causing or how to manage vomiting, speak to your healthcare team. They can advise on the best approach to managing it safely at home.