Question

A nurse is assessing a toddler who has gastroenteritis and is exhibiting manifestations of dehydration: True/ False Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?

a) Skin breakdown
b) Hypotension
c) Hyperpyrexia
d) Tachypnea

Answer 1

The nurse's priority finding when assessing a toddler with gastroenteritis and signs of dehydration is hypotension, or low blood pressure.

Step-by-step explanation:

When assessing a toddler with gastroenteritis and signs of dehydration, the nurse's priority finding would be hypotension, or low blood pressure. Hypotension is a symptom of hypovolemic shock, which can occur due to fluid losses from severe vomiting and diarrhea. Hypovolemic shock requires immediate intervention to restore fluids and raise blood pressure.