Final answer:
The nurse should monitor the client's intake and output, consider administering isotonic intravenous fluids such as saline, and carefully evaluate before increasing the rate of enteral feeding. It's crucial to continuously assess hydration status and electrolyte balance while managing dehydration.
Step-by-step explanation:
When caring for a client who is dehydrated and is receiving intermittent enteral feeding, there are several actions a nurse should consider. Firstly, monitoring the client's intake and output is crucial to assess the balance of fluids. This involves measuring all fluids that enter and leave the body, which is important in managing dehydration.
Administering intravenous fluids may be necessary to quickly restore fluid balance. For dehydration, a solution like isotonic saline, which is isotonic with body fluids, or a mixture of 2/3 isotonic saline and 1/3 Na lactate could be given, as they help repair the fluid and electrolyte losses effectively.
While encouraging the client to drink more fluids is typically advisable, it may not be feasible if the client's condition prevents them from keeping liquids down. Lastly, increasing the rate of enteral feeding without assessing the client's individual needs and tolerance could pose a risk, so it should only be considered after careful evaluation.
In conclusion, the nurse should continuously assess the client's hydration status and be cautious in making adjustments to treatment plans, all the while ensuring proper hydration and electrolyte balance is achieved.