Acute Infectious Gastroenteritis Case Study: 25-Year-Old with Acute Loose Stools & Mild Dehydration | Primary Care 2025/2026

A comprehensive primary care case study for 2025/2026 on a 25-year-old male presenting with acute-onset watery diarrhea, abdominal cramping, low-grade fever, and mild dehydration following a potential foodborne exposure. This case explores the systematic evaluation of acute gastroenteritis, including focused history taking, physical examination, red flag assessment, and judicious use of laboratory testing (CBC, BMP) to confirm dehydration and rule out severe infection. Covers evidence-based management with oral rehydration therapy, loperamide precautions, dietary guidance (BRAT diet), probiotics, zinc supplementation, and comprehensive patient education on contagion prevention and warning signs. Ideal for advanced practice nurses, medical students, and primary care clinicians managing common gastrointestinal infections in outpatient settings.