Only half of Australian GPs document diagnostic and ongoing management information in patient records when treating children with acute gastroenteritis, according to a controversial ongoing study.

This is despite most adhering to treatment guidelines that promote oral fluid replacement and discourage use of antibiotics, antiemetics and antidiarrheals, the researchers say.

In the latest CareTrack Kids study, investigators have assessed the medical records of 669 children presenting with acute gastroenteritis in general practice, EDs and hospital inpatient services from 2012-13.

The records were audited against 35 clinical indicators drawn up by paediatric nurses to determine adherence to clinical practice guidelines during the ‘diagnosis’, ‘treatment’ and ‘ongoing management’ phases of care.