Question

A nurse is admitting a client who has had a fever and diarrhea for the past 3 days. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse the client is dehydrated?

a.Distended neck veins
b.Orthostatic hypotension
c.Weight gain
d.Peripheral edema

Answer 1

Orthostatic hypotension is the sign among the provided options that indicates dehydration in a client with fever and diarrhea. Other options like distended neck veins, weight gain, and peripheral edema are associated with fluid overload, not dehydration.

Step-by-step explanation:

Signs of Dehydration in a Client with Fever and Diarrhea

The client who has had a fever and diarrhea for the past 3 days is likely suffering from dehydration, given these symptoms. Among the options provided, orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing up from a sitting or lying position) is a finding that would indicate dehydration. Dehydration can decrease blood volume, which in turn can lead to orthostatic hypotension due to the body’s reduced ability to maintain blood pressure when changing positions. Other signs of dehydration include marked decrease in urination, a very dry mouth and throat, dizziness, and excessive thirst.

Options such as distended neck veins, weight gain, and peripheral edema are typically associated with fluid overload and are not indicative of dehydration. A patient with dehydration can experience weight loss and a lack of elastic skin turgor, representing a decrease in tissue water. Severe dehydration, if not treated promptly, can lead to serious complications, including disturbances in acid-base balance, and in critical cases, loss of consciousness and death.

Answer 2

Orthostatic hypotension, which is characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing, is a symptom that can indicate dehydration, especially in a client with a history of fever and diarrhea for multiple days.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse admitting a client who has had a fever and diarrhea for the past three days should look for various symptoms and signs to ascertain whether the client is dehydrated. Among the listed options, orthostatic hypotension is a symptom that can indicate dehydration. Orthostatic hypotension refers to a sudden drop in blood pressure when a person stands up, which can occur due to decreased blood volume as a result of dehydration.

Dehydration often results from conditions causing excessive water loss, such as vomiting, diarrhea, fever, or high environmental temperatures. Because the client has experienced days of diarrhea, they have likely suffered substantial water and electrolyte losses, leading to symptoms like dizziness and decreased blood pressure, particularly upon standing, known as orthostatic changes. Other signs and symptoms of dehydration include thirst, lightheadedness, dry mouth and throat, decreased urination, and in severe cases, confusion and fainting.