Question

A nurse is caring for a client with suspected dehydration. For which findings should the nurse monitor this client?

Answer 1

The nurse should monitor the client for signs of dehydration, including increased thirst, dark yellow urine, dry mucous membranes, decreased urine output, and elevated heart rate.

Step-by-step explanation:

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, leading to an imbalance in fluid levels. To monitor a client for dehydration, the nurse assesses various clinical indicators. Increased thirst is a common early sign, as the body attempts to compensate for fluid loss by signaling the need for more intake. Dark yellow urine can indicate concentrated urine, suggesting reduced water content in the body.

Dry mucous membranes, such as the mouth and tongue, are additional signs of dehydration. The decreased urine output is a result of the body conserving water in response to reduced fluid intake. Monitoring the client's heart rate is crucial, as dehydration can lead to an increased heart rate in an attempt to maintain blood pressure. These findings collectively guide the nurse in assessing the severity of dehydration and implementing appropriate interventions, such as fluid replacement.

In summary, the nurse's monitoring focuses on a range of clinical signs that collectively provide insights into the client's fluid status. Identifying these indicators early allows for timely intervention to address dehydration and prevent complications associated with inadequate fluid balance.

Answer 2

The nurse should monitor the client for signs of dehydration, including increased heart rate, decreased urine output, and dry mucous membranes.

Step-by-step explanation:

Dehydration is a condition that results from inadequate fluid intake or excessive fluid loss. Monitoring the client for increased heart rate is crucial because dehydration reduces blood volume, leading to a compensatory increase in heart rate to maintain adequate circulation. Additionally, decreased urine output is a key indicator as the body attempts to conserve fluids in response to dehydration. This can be assessed by monitoring the frequency and volume of urination.

Dry mucous membranes, such as the mouth and nose, are another important finding to watch for. Dehydration often leads to reduced saliva production, resulting in a dry oral mucosa. The nurse should assess the client's mucous membranes for moisture and intervene promptly if dryness is noted. Other potential signs include sunken eyes, lethargy, and poor skin turgor, which can also be indicative of dehydration.

In summary, the nurse's monitoring should focus on increased heart rate, decreased urine output, and dry mucous membranes as key indicators of dehydration. Early recognition and intervention are essential to prevent complications associated with fluid imbalance.